In the ever-changing world of royal family dynamics, one thing remains constant: change. As the next generation of royals prepares for their future roles, Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, has made a significant decision to ensure that his son, Prince George, is well-prepared for his royal destiny. This year, we’re likely to learn more about where Prince George is headed, with royal expert Charlotte Griffiths predicting that the young heir may bypass Eton College, breaking from his father’s prestigious school tradition.
Despite the royal family legacy, experts believe that Princess Catherine has reservations about sending her son to such a traditional institution, hinting that an alternative educational path might be on the table for the future king. William’s recent action, while seen as part of his fatherly duties, has sparked a broader conversation about how the next monarch is being shaped, especially amid ongoing turmoil within the royal family.
As George’s schooling looms large on the royal agenda, some sources speculate that a more local school, such as Marlborough College—where Catherine herself flourished—might be a better fit for the young heir. Catherine had a tough time at her previous school, and Marlborough College held significant meaning for her. With George turning 11 in July and becoming increasingly involved in royal duties, such as attending the Christmas Carol service, his educational journey is certainly one for the history books.
During the Christmas Day walkabout, Prince George appeared to be growing into his royal role, showing that he’s not reliant on his father for guidance. The 11-year-old was acting on his own instincts during the meet-and-greet with the public, still mirroring his father’s actions but increasingly taking the lead without seeking approval from William. The most noticeable signals of this independence were when George strolled ahead of his parents during the walkabout, while William held Charlotte’s hand and Catherine held Louis’s hand.
Although George is second in line to the throne, he is unlikely to take on royal duties for many years to come. At the age of 11, Prince George spends most of his time at Lambrook School and returns home each evening to the four-bedroom Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor estate, where he lives with his family. While Prince George is sometimes expected to attend major royal events, such as Trooping the Colour and the annual Sandringham Christmas walkabout, he still leads a life quite similar to other children across the UK.
Royal author Robert Hardman has noted that Prince William and Princess Catherine have intentionally kept George’s royal responsibilities light, allowing him to experience as normal an upbringing as possible. This includes playing video games, participating in sporting events, and spending time with his family. In his book, Hardman wrote that William views it as his duty to prepare his eldest son for the royal responsibilities he will one day inherit.
Prince William had significant autonomy in his university education, military engagement, and introduction to royal duties. He is determined that Prince George will have a similar—or even greater—say in how he develops his own role within the royal family. There is no expectation that George will take on royal duties until he is well into his 20s, according to a veteran of the Kensington Palace team.
Before George was even made a page at the coronation, William and Catherine discussed the role with him to ensure he felt comfortable, as he was the youngest. It turned out that he was keen to take on the responsibility. While Prince George seems very capable when on the royal stage, waving to crowds from the Buckingham Palace balcony or greeting people, it’s clear that William and Catherine want their three children to enjoy their childhood with as much privacy as possible, shielding them from the public eye for as long as they can.
