Taming of the dragon

This lucky dragon survived his encounter with St George before an audience of pupils and parents at the Ringwood Waldorf School.

Pupils at the independent Steiner school were performing the classic story of St George & the Dragon, but in their version the ferocious beast is merely tamed not killed.

The dramatisation of this most English legend – part of the school’s Michaelmas assembly – is an annual tradition for Class 3 and every year its children perform it.

The assembly also featured pupils from other year groups singing or reciting poetry, with harvest gifts offered including breads, fruits and nuts.

“Michaelmas is an ancient festival which thanks the sun for the harvest and welcomes St Michael to help us face the cold and dark winter months ahead,” said Christine Polyblank, school spokeswoman.

“Here at school it’s a rousing event where we invite parents to help us celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of autumn.”

The festival also raised £120 for the Macmillan Cancer Fund.