Prince George, second in line to the British throne, is set to attend Eton College, continuing a royal tradition of education at the prestigious Berkshire boarding school. Kensington Palace confirmed the future monarch’s enrollment, which follows his current studies at Lambrook School. The move marks a shift in royal schooling, as George will follow in the footsteps of his father, Prince William, and uncle, Prince Harry, rather than continuing the path taken by his grandfather, King Charles III, who attended Gordonstoun.
Why Eton College Was Selected for the Future King
Eton College remains a primary choice for the British aristocracy due to its academic reputation and historical ties to the monarchy. Founded in 1440 by King Henry VI, the school has educated 20 British prime ministers, according to official school records. By choosing Eton, the Prince and Princess of Wales are opting for a path that integrates Prince George into a long-standing institutional framework. The school’s curriculum and boarding structure provide a level of security and privacy that the Royal Household prioritizes for the heir to the throne, as noted in reports by the BBC.
How Prince George’s Education Compares to His Predecessors
The choice of Eton highlights a move away from the boarding traditions of previous generations. While King Charles III attended Gordonstoun in Scotland—a school known for its rigorous physical demands and focus on outdoor character-building—Prince William and Prince Harry broke that cycle by attending Eton in the 1990s. Prince George’s enrollment solidifies a new precedent where the heir apparent attends the same institution as his father. This mirrors the educational trajectory of the modern Windsor family, which increasingly favors proximity to Windsor Castle over the more remote locations favored in the mid-20th century.
Educational Paths of Recent Royal Heirs
- King Charles III: Attended Cheam School and Gordonstoun.
- Prince William: Attended Wetherby School, Ludgrove, and Eton College.
- Prince George: Attended Thomas’s Battersea, Lambrook, and will move to Eton College.
What Happens Next for the Royal Family
Prince George will join the school once he reaches the age of 13, which is the standard entry point for Eton’s boarding program. Until that time, the Prince and Princess of Wales are expected to maintain their current residence at Adelaide Cottage on the Windsor Home Park estate. This location allows them to balance their official duties with a stable environment for their children. According to The Telegraph, the decision to enroll George at Eton reflects a balance between maintaining royal tradition and selecting an environment that prepares the young prince for his future constitutional role.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Prince George start at Eton?
Prince George is expected to begin his studies at Eton College when he reaches the age of 13, the school’s standard age for entry.
Does Prince George currently attend a boarding school?
No, Prince George currently attends Lambrook School, a preparatory school in Berkshire, as a day pupil.
Is Eton College a private institution?
Yes, Eton College is a private boarding school for boys, governed by an independent board of governors and funded primarily through tuition fees.
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