Solent Unviersity Southampton logo
Solent Unviersity Southampton logo
Skip to main content

Solent University's status as a leading and prominent institution has been underlined today with the unveiling of the University's coat of arms and a new motto: 'ready for the future'.

14th August 2020
Solent University Coat of Arms

Solent University's status as a leading and prominent institution has been underlined today with the unveiling of the University's coat of arms and a new motto: 'ready for the future'.

The coat of arms, which was granted by letters patent from the Garter Principal King of Arms, combines the University's long history and tradition with contemporary symbols to reflect its modern standing.

Traditionally, a coat of arms represents an institution's core values and is made up of a shield, crest and supporters (figures placed on either side of the shield).

Solent University's includes a shield depicting the Solent and Isle of Wight in a simple geometric design to highlight the University's origins and location. The crest pictures two Northern Gannets fencing, which reflects the University's longstanding connection to maritime and the Solent.

In addition, two supporters flank the shield. These are adaptations of the 'Warsash Dragon', which represent the University's first class maritime education. Only large or significant organisations are entitled to have supporters as part of the design.

Alongside the new coat of arms, Solent University has revealed its new motto: "Ready for the future", celebrating Solent University as a modern institution which prepares students for the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead of them.

Professor Karen Stanton, Vice-Chancellor of Solent University, explained: "It is a great honour for us. A coat of arms is only awarded to well-established institutions that are leaders in their fields, so we are incredibly proud to unveil ours today. It is a considerable achievement for Solent University and a great tribute to our students and staff past and present.

"The coat of arms reflects our modern values – the result of our evolution over the last 15 years, but also celebrates our long educational history and the University's origins dating back to 1856 and the School of Art."

The coat of arms will be used for the University's traditional ceremonial events such as graduations, official communications from the Vice-Chancellor's office and it will also feature in a new range of alumni merchandise.

The origins of a coat of arms dates back to the 11th century AD and were worn over armour so that knights could identify their opponent. In the 12th century, it became an honour to have a coat of arms in the family and has been a well-respected tradition ever since.Â