Prince George to Attend Historic Eton College
Kensington Palace has announced that Prince George, who turns 13 next month, will commence his education at Eton College this September. This decision sees the young prince, second in line to the British throne, attending the prestigious private school in Berkshire, an institution also attended by his father, the Prince of Wales.
Eton College, known for its rich history dating back to the 15th century, charges approximately £63,000 annually. Pupils typically begin their studies there at the age of 13. Prince George will transition from Lambrook School in Berkshire, where he has been a student alongside his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
A Traditional Educational Path
Speculation had been widespread regarding Prince George's next educational step, with discussions often centering on private institutions. While Marlborough College, his mother Catherine's alma mater, was considered, the choice of Eton represents a more traditional path for a future monarch.
The school boasts a distinguished list of alumni, including 20 former British prime ministers. Other royal family members, such as Prince Harry and Earl Spencer, Prince George's uncle and great-uncle respectively, also attended Eton.
Life as a Boarder at Eton
Prince George will become a boarder at Eton, which houses around 25 boarding houses, each accommodating approximately 55 students under the care of residential staff led by a house master. The Good Schools Guide notes that Eton provides each boy with a private single room, emphasizing that while some boys adapt quickly to boarding, others may take time to settle in.
Melanie Sanderson, managing editor of the Good Schools Guide, commented on Eton's facilities: "Despite its ancient buildings, it is a modern school with a progressive outlook." She added, "Prince George, however, faces a very particular future and his parents, with an unrivalled choice of schools available to them, have decided that an Eton education represents the best preparation for life as a modern working royal."
Notable figures from the political sphere who are Old Etonians include Lord David Cameron, Boris Johnson, and Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg. The school has also educated celebrities such as Eddie Redmayne, Dominic West, Damian Lewis, and Tom Hiddleston.
Prince William, reflecting on his time at Eton in an interview when he was 18, expressed enjoyment, stating he appreciated being "just another student."
Public Reaction and Future Role
The announcement regarding Eton has generated discussion on social media. Labour MP Zarah Sultana questioned the choice, suggesting a local comprehensive school might be more appropriate for a future king. Conversely, Conservative councillor Lucy Trimnell defended the decision, citing the significant security requirements for Prince George as one of the world's most famous 13-year-olds, which she argued state schools might not be equipped to handle.
Prince George recently participated in the Trooping the Colour ceremony in London with his family, continuing his gradual introduction to public life. He has also been observed engaging in charitable activities, such as assisting his father, Prince William, at a homeless charity during Christmas.
