A new chapter has begun for Prince George. Since September 8, the 13-year-old has been attending the historic boarding school, with his parents, Prince William and Princess Kate, accompanying him on his first day. During his first few weeks, the future king has been focused on getting used to his new routine, meeting his classmates, and settling into boarding school life. However, his move to Eton also means adapting to a set of rules that clearly shape students’ daily lives.
Prince George Has to Turn In His iPad Earlier
Starting in October, stricter guidelines for the use of school iPads will take effect at Eton College. Students will only be allowed to access websites approved by the school through a secure browser.
The school has also tightened its rules on usage times. Students are still not allowed to keep their devices overnight, but on Saturdays, they must now hand them in by 9 p.m. The iPads are distributed again at 7 a.m. the following morning. Previously, students were allowed to use the devices for an additional 30 minutes on Saturday evenings.
Parents’ Complaints Led to Stricter Measures
The new rules follow complaints made in 2024, when more than 100 parents reportedly sent a joint letter to then-Provost Sir Nicholas Coleridge and the school’s leadership team. In the letter, they raised concerns about Eton’s policies regarding devices and internet access.
Eton has used iPads as learning tools since 2019, with new students receiving the devices upon enrollment. Since 2024, a basic Nokia mobile phone has also been included in the school’s supplies, as smartphones are not permitted on campus.
William and Kate Also Keep an Eye on Screen Time
The stricter digital rules are also consistent with William and Kate’s approach to technology at home. The couple have repeatedly spoken about the importance of limiting their three children’s screen time and monitoring what they consume online.
William has said that George, Charlotte, and Louis have so far managed without their own smartphones. Kate has also discussed the potential effects of excessive screen time, including concerns that digital devices can replace face-to-face interactions. William has additionally spoken about the importance of adults keeping an eye on their own phone habits.
Security Personnel Must Also Keep an Eye on Social Media
George’s move to boarding school has changed not only his daily routine but also the responsibilities of his security team. In addition to protecting him from physical threats, his security personnel now have to pay closer attention to privacy risks in the digital sphere.
According to royal expert Kinsey Schofield, the security challenges now extend beyond physical protection to safeguarding George’s privacy. These concerns reportedly include cell phones, social media, photographs, videos, and modern technology such as drones operating on or around the school grounds.
