As preparations begin for the transition to secondary school, Prince George, the eldest child of the Prince and Princess of Wales, is poised to follow in his father Prince William’s footsteps by enrolling at Eton College this autumn. The 12-year-old royal is set to embark on a new chapter in his education, having already gained some boarding experience at Lambrook School, where he has been attending classes alongside his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
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Eton College is renowned for its exclusive educational offerings as an all-boys, full-time boarding school, with a distinguished history that dates back to 1440 when it was established by King Henry VI. As George approaches his 13th birthday, he is eager to embrace the opportunity to experience boarding life. According to recent reports, it was George himself who expressed a desire to his parents to try out boarding at Lambrook School prior to his move to Eton. This initiative came as a surprise to some, but it has proven beneficial for the young prince.
Royal commentator Robert Jobson revealed that both Prince William and Kate Middleton acquiesced to George’s request for a boarding experience at Lambrook, believing it would foster his independence and help him adapt to communal living. With about 75% of pupils at Lambrook participating in various forms of boarding, it serves as an excellent preparatory environment where students can gradually acclimatise to full-time boarding life.
In reflecting on the differences between Prince William’s and Prince George’s experiences at Eton, Jobson highlighted the contrasting family circumstances. William began his journey at Eton amidst the turmoil of his parents’ separation, the effects of which would linger throughout his school years. In stark contrast, George enters Eton from a stable home environment, with both parents actively involved in his upbringing. Jobson emphasised this positive foundation, suggesting that confidence is nurtured from one’s surroundings rather than being merely taught.
While the challenges associated with attending such a prestigious school are apparent, George has demonstrated resilience, particularly in light of recent family health issues, including diagnoses of cancer affecting both his mother and grandfather. Jobson acknowledged these struggles, yet noted that they have made George more composed as he prepares for his next academic venture.
As he steps into the iconic black tailcoat and pin-striped trousers worn by Eton students, George is likely to face a variety of challenges. However, the proximity of his family home in Windsor, which is merely a short drive away from Eton, will provide him with a safety net that contributes to his sense of security during this transition. Jobson expressed hope that the supportive environment at Eton will parallel the benefits William experienced during his time at the school.
Originally, there were several educational alternatives under consideration for Prince George, but a source close to the royal family reported that he has consistently expressed a desire to walk in his father’s footsteps. Eton is not only a place of tradition but also one that has evolved to include a more diverse student body compared to the past, as noted by royal author Sally Bedell Smith.
The decision for George to attend Eton was likely influenced by the school’s academic reputation, as well as its track record for cultivating leadership qualities among its students. Eton has educated numerous notable figures, including 20 British prime ministers and several members of the royal family, thus maintaining a legacy of excellence.
As George prepares to embrace the experience that lies ahead, it is evident that he is embarking on a path that is both laden with expectations and enriched by the legacy of those who came before him. With the support of his family and the educational framework at Eton, he is poised to navigate the complexities of adolescence while continuing the royal tradition.