It is difficult for many royal watchers to believe how quickly time has passed since Prince William and Princess Catherine welcomed their first child in July 2013. Prince George Alexander Louis, second in line to the British throne, will turn 13 in the summer of 2026, an age that traditionally marks the transition to secondary education in the United Kingdom.
As that milestone approaches, attention has naturally turned to how the Prince and Princess of Wales will manage this important stage in their eldest son’s life. While no official decisions have been announced, the topic reflects a broader reality faced by many families: the move from primary to secondary school represents a significant adjustment, not only for the child but for parents and siblings as well.
A Major Transition for the Wales Family
Prince George currently attends Lambrook School in Berkshire, where he lives at home with his parents and younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Lambrook is a co-educational preparatory school known for its pastoral approach and emphasis on privacy, qualities that align with the Wales family’s stated priorities for their children.
The transition to secondary school will mark the first major educational shift in Prince George’s life. For families across the UK, this period often involves balancing academic considerations, emotional readiness, and long-term planning. For the heir to the throne, those decisions also carry heightened public interest, even though the family has consistently emphasized their desire for as normal a childhood as possible.
How Prince George’s Experience Differs From Prince William’s
Prince George’s upbringing already differs in notable ways from that of his father. Prince William began boarding school at the age of eight when he enrolled at Ludgrove School, a path that reflected long-standing royal tradition. He later went on to attend Eton College, one of the country’s most well-known independent schools.
In contrast, Prince George has remained a day pupil throughout his early education. This shift reflects a broader modernization within the royal family, with Prince William and Princess Catherine frequently speaking through official channels about the importance of family stability and hands-on parenting.
Royal commentators have noted that this approach aligns with wider societal changes, where boarding is no longer seen as an automatic choice, even among families with long-standing institutional traditions.
Schools Commonly Mentioned in Reputable Reporting
Although Kensington Palace has made no announcements regarding Prince George’s future school, reputable British outlets have reported that two institutions are often discussed in informed royal coverage.
Eton College, located near Windsor Castle, is one option frequently referenced due to its historic association with the royal family. Both Prince William and Prince Harry attended Eton, and its proximity to the family’s Windsor-area residence makes it a practical option from a logistical standpoint.
Another school that has received attention is Marlborough College in Wiltshire, a co-educational independent school attended by Princess Catherine. Marlborough has a reputation for academic breadth and pastoral care and represents a different educational model from the single-sex tradition of Eton.
Importantly, these schools are mentioned not because of confirmed plans, but because they reflect established educational connections within the family. No authoritative source has stated that a final decision has been made.
The Question of Boarding Versus Day School
One aspect of Prince George’s future education that has drawn interest is whether he will attend as a boarder or remain a day student. In the UK, many independent secondary schools offer both options, allowing families flexibility depending on a child’s needs.
Educational experts frequently emphasize that boarding decisions are highly individual and often influenced by a child’s maturity, family circumstances, and emotional readiness. For the Wales family, this decision is likely to be informed by their broader approach to parenting rather than by tradition alone.
To date, no official information suggests that Prince George will necessarily follow a boarding path, and royal correspondents have consistently cautioned against assuming outcomes based on historical precedent.
Why the Decision Is Likely to Remain Private
Kensington Palace has long adopted a policy of limiting public discussion of the Wales children’s education. When school choices have been announced in the past, they have typically been confirmed only shortly before enrollment and with minimal detail.
This approach is consistent with advice from educational and security experts, who note that revealing school details too far in advance can place unnecessary attention on staff, pupils, and families associated with the institution.
For Prince George, whose future role will inevitably place him under public scrutiny, managing exposure during formative years is widely regarded as essential. By delaying announcements, the family can help ensure a smoother transition and protect the learning environment.
Balancing Duty and Normalcy
As the future King, Prince George will eventually undertake public responsibilities, but his parents have made clear through their actions that childhood comes first. Public appearances involving the Wales children are carefully limited, and their schooling has been approached with the same discretion.
This balance reflects a broader shift within the modern monarchy, which seeks to combine tradition with contemporary expectations around child development and mental well-being.
Royal historians often note that earlier generations of royals experienced far less parental involvement during their schooling. The Wales family’s approach signals a conscious departure from that model.
Public Interest and Responsible Reporting
Media interest in Prince George’s education is unlikely to fade as 2026 approaches. However, reputable outlets consistently stress the importance of responsible reporting, avoiding speculation and respecting the boundaries set by the family.
For readers, distinguishing between confirmed information and conjecture is essential. To date, the only verified facts are Prince George’s age, current school, and the family’s general commitment to privacy.
Any future announcements regarding secondary education will almost certainly come through official palace channels or established UK news organizations.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As Prince George prepares for his teenage years, his transition to secondary school represents a personal milestone rather than a constitutional one. While his future role is unique, the challenges of adolescence, education, and identity are universal.
Whether he attends a school connected to royal tradition or one reflecting his mother’s educational background, the decision will be shaped by careful consideration rather than public expectation.
Until an official statement is made, speculation serves little purpose. What remains clear is that Prince William and Princess Catherine continue to prioritize stability, privacy, and well-being as they guide their eldest child toward the next stage of his life.
Conclusion
Prince George’s move to secondary school in 2026 marks an important moment for the Wales family, blending tradition with a modern approach to parenting. While public interest is inevitable, the absence of official confirmation underscores the family’s commitment to discretion.
As with previous decisions involving the Wales children, any announcement is likely to be measured, factual, and focused on ensuring a smooth transition. Until then, reputable reporting and restraint remain essential in covering the future King’s early years.