Even in an ideal royal setting, families struggle with important choices. The current saga highlights Duchess Catherine's personal conflict over Prince George's education. At 11, Prince George and his siblings had a happy childhood. In 2022, when they moved to Adelaide Cottage, they went to Lambrook, a respected preparatory school in Berkshire.
Royal expert Katie Nichol describes Lambrook as a safe haven for the young royals during difficult times. Stability is important, especially when Duchess Catherine is facing difficulties, allowing George to enjoy activities such as playing football with friends. However, with Lambrook being a prep school, the question of Prince George's next educational step is pressing. The decision is not just about personal considerations, but also about tradition and family dynamics.
Reports suggest that Prince William and Princess Catherine have chosen Eaton College, William's alma mater, for George's teenage years, despite Catherine's initial reservations. Catherine's interest stems from her own past experiences and a desire to modernise the royal way of raising her children. The family visited Eaton College last June, marking a significant change for Prince George.
The choice breaks with tradition previous royals have attended other schools such as Gordonstoun. William values his time at Eaton, which is known for educating aristocrats and royalty. Prince George seems keen to attend Eaton, while Catherine is concerned about the school's strict environment. She preferred Marlborough College, where she had studied, envisioning a different experience for George.
Catherine was initially against sending her son to such a traditional school due to her own negative experiences at boarding school. Despite their differing views, Catherine softened when she saw that George admired his father. The decision was out of tradition; both William and Catherine wanted the best for their children, often breaking with royal convention. For Catherine, supporting George came with emotional challenges from her past experiences.