Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s children, Archie and Lilibet, have commenced a new school year in the UK, marking a significant milestone for the family. At ages seven and five, respectively, they have again stepped into the classroom, this time in Harry’s home country, following the family’s recent relocation back to Britain. The announcement comes amid news that the Sussex family aims to keep details about their new home and the children’s school under wraps.
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According to a source familiar with the couple, the well-being and adaptation of their children have been at the forefront of Prince Harry and Meghan’s priorities since their return. “Settling the children has been, and remains, their focus. Everything else will fall into place when the time is right,” the insider shared with PEOPLE. The source further noted the complexity of their transition, highlighting the challenges of moving halfway across the world. “There is a lot to do, and it’s been really busy getting the kids settled,” they added, emphasising a positive outlook with “they are happy to be back.”
As Archie and Lilibet embark on this educational venture, they are not alone in navigating crucial developments in their schooling. Their cousin, Prince George, who is thirteen years old, began his own journey this month by starting at Eton College. This transition signifies the first time George will reside away from home for his education, while Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis remain at Lambrook School.
Harry and Meghan’s move back to the UK has also resulted in their establishing a non-royal base in Britain, although they continue to maintain their residence in Montecito, California. This relocation signifies a pivotal moment for both children; while Archie was born in the UK and left shortly after, Lilibet has never resided in her father’s homeland due to her birth in California in 2021.
Before their return, the Sussex family sought to reconnect with their British roots through several visits, including a significant reunion with King Charles. This marked the monarch’s first opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren in four years. A close source previously shared that Harry had been contemplating a move back to the UK for an extended period, driven by a desire for his children to grasp their heritage and to be acquainted with the world he grew up in.
Alongside the children’s settling into school, Harry has begun to re-engage with his professional commitments. On 7 September, he was seen at a film and television studio in the UK, marking his first public appearance since the family’s return to Britain.
For Meghan, this transitional phase reflects a broader opportunity for their children. An insider commented, “Meghan feels fortunate that they’re able to give Archie and Lilibet the chance to experience both worlds.” Highlighting the enriching benefits that life in the UK could offer, Meghan’s enthusiasm for fostering ties to British heritage is evident.
In 2022, Meghan provided advice on managing the return to school after the long summer break. She suggested small gestures to make the transition easier for children, such as leaving handwritten notes and encouraging discussions about their day at dinner. Recommendations included surprises tucked away in backpacks, like stickers or family photographs, to help ease any anxiety the children might feel.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s focus on their children’s well-being and education suggests a commitment to creating a nurturing environment. As Archie and Lilibet adjust to their new schooling in the UK, the Sussex family appears to be embracing this fresh chapter with optimism and determination.