Prince Harry has revealed that the education of his children played a significant role in his family’s recent decision to return to the United Kingdom. In his first interview since relocating, the Duke of Sussex shared insights about settling his children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, into their new environment and the benefits they are experiencing as a result of the move.
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In a conversation with GQ’s Zach Baron, Prince Harry expressed his happiness regarding the children’s adjustment to their new school. “It’s been nice to be close to friends, family, and their children as well — to be able to have endless playdates to really help our kids settle in,” he stated. His desire for his children to experience the same joyful moments he enjoyed in his youth was a driving force behind the family’s decision.
After stepping back from their royal duties in 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle initially settled in the U.S. with their eldest son, Archie, who is now seven, and welcomed their daughter, Lilibet, in California two years later. However, in August this year, the couple announced their plans to move back to the UK for a significant period, enrolling their children in a British school shortly after their arrival.
Harry highlighted the importance of this move for their family, stating, “Opportunities for the family,” were a primary motivator. He articulated the importance of enrolling the children in a British educational system, noting, “I didn’t know how important it was to me.” The change was further necessitated when, just two days into the term, security issues and logistical concerns prompted a switch to a different school.
“I’m not criticising American schools, but I think for kids at 7 and 5 to be able to have that comparison and to have two completely different cultural experiences is so important today,” Harry explained. The family has since settled into a new school where Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet are reportedly thriving.
The decision to return to Britain was not made hastily, according to Harry, who indicated that the move had been a consideration for some time but was solidified by the right circumstances aligning. “When certain stars align, and it’s clear that this should or probably will end up being the case, then we lean into that,” he said, reflecting on the spontaneity of their return.
Significantly, Harry had hinted at the prospect of returning during a conversation with singer Joss Stone at the WellChild Awards in September 2025. Stone, who had recently returned from living in Nashville, recounted their discussion about the importance of children’s education and a supportive community. Harry expressed his enthusiasm about schools in the UK and the community ties essential for children’s upbringing.
Stone noted that this sentiment resonates with many parents, including herself. “It was nice to share that with him because it’s exactly why we felt drawn to come back — for the kids to grow up surrounded by family, friends and a strong sense of belonging, and, most importantly, in a safe environment,” she shared.
The move back to the UK seems to signify a new chapter for the Sussex family, providing them opportunities to forge deeper connections with relatives and old friends. This decision appears to be rooted not only in practical benefits such as education but also in their desire for their children to have a nurturing childhood experience reminiscent of Harry’s own upbringing.
As the family continues to settle into their new life, public interest remains high regarding how this return will affect both their personal lives and future commitments. The Duke’s reflections indicate a thoughtful approach to parenting, placing significant emphasis on the upbringing and educational experiences of Archie and Lilibet as they grow up in their father’s homeland.