Prince William and Kate Middleton, known as the Prince and Princess of Wales, are reportedly in a debate over the secondary education of their eldest child, Prince George. Prince George, who is 11 years old and second in line to the British throne, has been visiting several eminent schools with his parents as they contemplate his educational future. Prince George
The royal duo has explored various educational institutions, such as Eton College, the school attended by both Prince William and his brother, Prince Harry. George reportedly visited the campus before Easter, leading to speculation about him possibly following his father’s educational path.
Conversely, the Princess of Wales has expressed interest in her former school, Marlborough College in Wiltshire, which she recently toured with Prince George. The co-educational boarding school is reportedly Kate’s preferred option for her son.
Prince William, 42, is said to be eager for George to attend Eton, which costs $82,000 annually. The school is a traditional choice for royals and other prominent figures, known for its history of educating future leaders.
Eton College, established in 1440, has an esteemed list of alumni, including 15 British royals and 21 former prime ministers. Located near the Wales family’s residence at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park, Eton offers a convenient option for the future king.
The experiences of William and Harry at Eton differed significantly. While William adjusted well, Prince Harry detailed struggles in his 2023 memoir, “Spare.” Harry, now living in Montecito, California, with Meghan Markle and their two children, shared his academic challenges at Eton.
Harry described Eton as “heaven for brilliant boys,” stating it could only be “purgatory” for someone who struggled academically. His performance influenced his choice to join the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst instead of attending university.
The Princess of Wales, 43, seems to prefer other educational pathways for her son. Reports indicate Kate has been seen evaluating two elite private schools in North London: University College School in Hampstead and Highgate School. These institutions offer significant educational opportunities and are closer to London.
Highgate School, in particular, has drawn the Princess’s attention due to its acclaimed theater department. However, the school’s 30-mile distance from Windsor could present logistical challenges.
Kate’s preference for co-educational schools may be influenced by the desire for all her children—George, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six—to attend the same school. Currently, the royal children attend Lambrook School in Berkshire, which educates students up to age 13.
Some royal observers suggest Kate’s considerations may include concerns about potential bullying, drawing from her own school experiences.
A third option has surfaced: Wellington College, located near Windsor, offers both boarding and day programs in a co-educational setting that might suit all three children in the future.
The decision is significant not only for Prince George’s personal development but also for its implications on the monarchy’s modernization. Choosing between the traditional Eton and a co-educational institution reflects broader discussions about the future of the royal family.
Eton’s provost, Sir Nicholas Coleridge, has emphasized that no exceptions will be made in the admissions process, stating, “There is a rigorous admissions system here, run with integrity, and it is awkward when the prospective boy hasn’t caught the selector’s eye,” as noted in the Spectator.
Prince George, who will turn 12 in July, still has four terms left at Lambrook School, allowing time for the royal couple to finalize their decision. Regardless of their choice, the selected school is expected to provide Prince George with an education that aligns with his future royal role.
