Prince George embarked on a significant phase of his life as he started at Eton College, one of the UK’s most prestigious all-boys boarding schools. The 13-year-old prince commenced his educational journey on 8th September 2026, accompanied by his parents, Prince William and Kate Middleton. The occasion mirrored a similar moment for William, who also began his education at Eton 31 years earlier.
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Upon arriving, the family made their way through a historic archway beneath Lupton’s Tower, a 16th-century gatehouse that marks the entrance to the school. They were warmly welcomed by Simon Henderson, the headmaster of Eton, along with Sir Nicholas Coleridge, the provost of the institution. “Welcome,” Henderson greeted Prince George. “Good luck. Enjoy it,” he added, offering encouraging words to mark the young prince’s first day.
For this memorable occasion, Prince George met his school officials dressed in “home clothes,” which included a suit and tie. His father, Prince William, was similarly attired, while Kate Middleton opted for a chic dark green midi dress, holding an umbrella to shield them from the dreary weather. Later, official photographs captured Prince George in the school’s distinct uniform, featuring the traditional tailcoat, waistcoat, pinstripe trousers, and a white collared shirt, providing a glimpse of his new life at Eton.
As Prince George begins his studies, he will be settling into a room within the school’s boarding house, a setup designed to encourage independence. Kensington Palace had confirmed earlier in June this year that George would attend Eton, following in his father’s footsteps. Royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith shared insights, noting that Eton was instrumental for William during his own formative years. She commented, “It will give George a rigorous education that he will need for his role.”
A source close to the royal family also disclosed that George had expressed a desire to follow his father’s academic path. The legendary institution, founded in 1440 by King Henry VI, boasts an annual fee of around $80,000 and has an impressive record of educating many prominent figures, including 20 former prime ministers and other royal family members, such as Prince Harry.
While acknowledging Eton’s traditional values, Bedell Smith remarked upon its evolution over time, highlighting the more diverse student body compared to previous decades when William was a student. She inferred that William and Kate’s decision was influenced by the school’s reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to nurturing future leaders.
The proximity of Eton College to the royal family’s residence allows Prince George to maintain a connection to home. Situated just 15 miles from Forest Lodge, where the family resides, George will have the opportunity to return home on designated weekends, and his parents are encouraged to be involved in school events, including sports matches and performances.
Reflecting on his own experiences, Prince William has spoken fondly about the school’s location, recalling how he enjoyed taking short breaks from studies to visit his grandmother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, for “the best teas” at Windsor. This familial connection adds a layer of comfort for George as he begins his time at the school.
As a new student, Prince George will surely receive tips from his father regarding the school’s renowned traditions, including how to properly wear the distinctive Eton uniform and nuances of the school’s terminology. Moreover, it is anticipated that William may offer insights into the “colours test,” where new students are quizzed on the colours representing Eton College’s various boarding houses and the locations of its historic buildings.
With landmark moments like this marking a transition, Prince George’s journey at Eton is likely to be closely followed by the public, reflecting both the pride of the royal family and the traditions of one of the UK’s most iconic educational institutions. As he embarks on this new chapter, the support from his parents and the legacy of education at Eton will undoubtedly play pivotal roles in shaping his future.