Prince George is preparing for one of the biggest changes of his young royal life: starting at Eton College this fall. Kensington Palace confirmed the decision in June, ending long-running talk over where the eldest child of Prince William and Princess Kate would continue his education. At 12, and turning 13 on July 22, George is taking a step that carries both personal and royal weight. The move places him on a familiar path for the heir’s family, but it also fits the Waleses’ careful approach to raising their children.
Prince George Chooses the School Prince William Attended
According to People, the decision was shaped not only by tradition but by George’s own feelings. “George has always wanted to follow in his dad’s footsteps," said a source close to the family according to People. Prince William and Princess Kate had explored different options, including schools that would have kept George closer to Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Instead, they settled on Eton, the all-boys boarding school near Windsor that Prince William attended in the 1990s.
Prince William Found Stability at Eton
For Prince William, Eton was more than a prestigious school. It offered structure during a difficult period in his childhood, as his parents’ marriage broke down and public attention intensified. The school remained an important part of his teenage years, giving him trusted mentors and friendships that lasted into adulthood. That history appears to matter now as he helps George prepare for the same transition. The choice suggests William sees lasting value in the environment that supported him during some of his most formative years.
Windsor Location Keeps George Close to Home
One major factor is geography. Eton is about 15 minutes from the family’s home in Windsor, allowing George to board while still staying closely connected to his parents and siblings. Students return home on designated weekends, and families are encouraged to attend school activities. That balance of independence and access likely appealed to the Prince and Princess of Wales, who have tried to give their children a steady upbringing. George has also already had some experience easing into boarding life during his time at Lambrook.
Kate and William Weighed George’s Personality
The final decision appears to have been made with George’s temperament in mind as much as royal history. “William loved his time at Eton, but he would have thought about what school would be the best for George’s strengths, qualities and personality,” Ailsa Anderson told People. Over the past year, George has looked more at ease during major public appearances, from Wimbledon to Buckingham Palace events. As he leaves behind the school years shared with Charlotte and Louis, Eton marks an early test of independence and duty.
