As Prince George approaches his 13th birthday this July, the Royal Family is preparing for a significant milestone that marks a rite of passage for any young heir. Currently, he attends Lambrook School alongside his siblings, Charlotte and Louis, but the transition to secondary school is imminent. This decision blends centuries of tradition with the practical needs of a modern prince.
The Boarding School Consideration
The choice to send George to boarding school extends beyond following in his father's footsteps; it primarily aims to balance duty with a normal childhood. Boarding schools provide enhanced security and privacy that are difficult to maintain elsewhere. As Princess Diana once observed, these institutions enable royal children to socialize and develop independence among peers, avoiding isolation behind palace walls with only tutors for company.
Eton College: The Frontrunner
Eton College is widely regarded as the most likely destination. It is Prince William's alma mater and conveniently located near the family's residence at Windsor Great Park. With an annual cost of approximately $70,000, Eton is among the world's most prestigious schools, having produced 20 British Prime Ministers. If George attends, he will join a long list of relatives, including the Duke of Kent and the Duke of Gloucester, who also studied there. There is a sentimental aspect to the Eton choice as well. During William's time at Eton, its proximity to Windsor allowed him to have weekly lunches with his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. These meetings, encouraged by Prince Philip, helped William navigate a challenging period during his parents' divorce while receiving a "masterclass" in his future role as King.
Marlborough College: A Modern Alternative
Another strong contender is Marlborough College, where Kate Middleton and her siblings were educated. It offers a different atmosphere compared to Eton's all-boys environment. Marlborough is coeducational and praised for its modern, grounded approach to education. Choosing a coed school would align with William and Kate's philosophy of keeping their children's upbringing as relatable as possible.
Implications for the Monarchy
The final decision will signal much about the future of the monarchy. If the family opts for Eton, Prince Louis will likely follow his brother. However, choosing Marlborough could mean all three children stay together, or at least pave a clear path for Princess Charlotte to follow her mother's educational journey. For now, the world watches to see whether the young prince will lean toward traditional prestige or a more modern family legacy.
