Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Prince and Princess of Wales, are facing a decision regarding the secondary education of their eldest son, Prince George, who is 11 years old and second in line to the British throne. Recently, Prince George has been visiting several prominent schools alongside his parents as they evaluate educational options for him.
The royal couple has considered various educational institutions, including Eton College, where Prince William and his brother, Prince Harry, studied. Before the Easter holidays, Prince George reportedly toured the Eton campus, which has led to speculation that he may attend the same school as his father.
In contrast, the Princess of Wales is interested in Marlborough College in Wiltshire, her alma mater. She recently accompanied Prince George on a visit there, suggesting it may be her preferred choice for his education.
Prince William, 42, appears to favor Eton, a school with an $82,000 annual tuition, where he excelled. Eton is a favored institution among royals and other prominent figures, continuing a tradition of educating future leaders.
Founded in 1440, Eton College boasts distinguished alumni, including 15 members of the British royal family and 21 former prime ministers. Its proximity to the Wales family home at Adelaide Cottage in Windsor Home Park makes it a convenient choice.
However, William and Harry’s experiences at Eton were different. While William adjusted well, Prince Harry described a more challenging time in his 2023 memoir, “Spare.” Now residing in Montecito, California, Harry noted that he struggled academically at Eton.
Harry stated that Eton was “heaven for brilliant boys, it could thus only be purgatory for one very unbrilliant boy.” This influenced his decision to attend the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst instead of university.
The Princess of Wales, 43, seems to have different preferences for her son’s education. Reports indicate she has been exploring two esteemed private schools in North London—University College School (UCS) in Hampstead and Highgate School. These schools offer prestigious educational opportunities closer to London.
Highgate School, with its theater department, has reportedly drawn Kate’s attention. However, the 30-mile distance from Windsor could present logistical challenges.
Kate’s preference for co-educational institutions may be influenced by her desire for all her children—George, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six—to attend the same school. The siblings presently attend Lambrook School in Berkshire, which provides education up to eighth grade (age 13).
Some royal experts suggest another factor for Kate could be concern about potential bullying, based on her school experiences.
Another potential compromise is Wellington College, located near Windsor. This institution offers boarding and day student options in a co-educational setting, potentially accommodating all three children in the future.
The decision is significant not only for Prince George’s development but also reflects the monarchy’s modernization. Choosing between traditional (Eton) and innovative (co-educational) options mirrors broader discussions about the royal family’s future.
Despite the family’s status, Eton’s provost, Sir Nicholas Coleridge, emphasized that no exceptions would be made to the school’s admissions standards. “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,” he wrote in the Spectator.
Prince George, who turns 12 in July, has four terms left at Lambrook School, allowing time for a decision. Whatever school is chosen, it will aim to provide an education befitting his future role in the monarchy.
