Educating a future monarch is never a simple task, and for the Prince and Princess of Wales, the decision surrounding Prince George’s next school has become one of the most closely watched choices of their parenting journey. As their eldest son prepares to leave Lambrook School and move into secondary education, Prince William and Princess Catherine are reportedly weighing several prestigious institutions — each offering different traditions, academic cultures, and lifestyles that could shape the future King in profoundly different ways.
For royal parents, selecting a school involves far more than reputation or exam results. William and Catherine have consistently tried to raise their children with as much normality as possible despite the extraordinary spotlight surrounding them. George, now 12, has spent his childhood balancing royal duty with ordinary routines such as football matches, school events, and family holidays. The Waleses are said to believe that choosing the right secondary school will be essential not only for his education but also for his emotional development and personal confidence.
The stakes are especially high considering the experiences previous royals endured during their own school years. King Charles famously struggled during his time at Gordonstoun in Scotland, a boarding school known for its strict discipline and demanding environment. Former classmates later described him as lonely and isolated, and Charles himself reportedly found the experience emotionally difficult. Prince Harry also admitted in later interviews that he never truly felt comfortable at Eton College, despite its elite reputation. He confessed that he often rebelled against the school’s culture and longed to break away from expectations placed upon him.
These royal experiences have undoubtedly influenced William and Catherine’s thinking. Rather than automatically following tradition, they appear determined to find a school environment that genuinely suits George’s personality and interests. According to reports, the young prince recently completed his Common Entrance Exams and may already have sat entrance assessments for several top schools. With the final decision approaching, speculation over his future school has intensified.
For years, many royal watchers assumed Eton College would be the obvious destination. The historic Berkshire institution educated both Prince William and Prince Harry and has long been associated with Britain’s political and aristocratic elite. Founded in 1440 by King Henry VI, Eton is one of the most prestigious boys’ boarding schools in the world. Its alumni include prime ministers David Cameron and Boris Johnson, as well as countless influential figures in politics, business, literature, and the military.
The school’s traditions are legendary. Students wear formal tailcoats, participate in centuries-old ceremonies, and live within a highly structured environment designed to cultivate discipline and leadership. Eton contains 25 boarding houses, each housing around 50 boys from different year groups to encourage social integration and mentorship between younger and older pupils. William and Harry both stayed at Manor House, one of the school’s historic residences dating back to the early 1700s.
Unlike many traditional boarding schools, Eton gives students individual study bedrooms from the age of 13, encouraging independence and responsibility. Supporters argue that the school prepares boys exceptionally well for leadership roles and public life. Yet critics point out that Eton remains a single-sex institution, something that may concern Catherine, who has often been described as favoring a more balanced and modern educational environment.
That possibility has pushed attention toward Marlborough College, Princess Catherine’s former school in Wiltshire. Marlborough differs from Eton in several important ways. It is fully co-educational, combining boys and girls across day and boarding houses, and has developed a reputation for offering a more relaxed and creative atmosphere. Founded in 1843, the school originally aimed to educate sons of clergymen but gradually evolved into one of Britain’s most respected independent schools.
Marlborough’s alumni list is remarkably diverse. Poet John Betjeman, artist William Morris, actor Jack Whitehall, and Samantha Cameron all studied there. Catherine herself attended the school in the 1990s, years after it transitioned into full co-education. Friends reportedly described her school years as happy and socially successful, experiences that may naturally influence her preference for George.
The campus itself blends tradition with a more contemporary spirit. The school contains all-boys, all-girls, and mixed boarding houses spread across both the grounds and the nearby market town. Catherine’s former boarding house, Elmhurst, has become especially fashionable among celebrity families in recent years. Marlborough is also known for encouraging arts, sports, and outdoor activities alongside academic achievement, something that may appeal to George, who is believed to enjoy football, nature, and creative subjects.
However, recent developments suggest William and Catherine may be considering options beyond the schools they personally attended. One institution drawing increasing attention is Oundle School in Northamptonshire. The Prince and Princess reportedly toured the school privately earlier this year, sparking rumors that it has become a serious contender.
Founded in 1556, Oundle combines historic traditions with a reputation for innovation and pastoral care. Unlike Eton, it is co-educational and welcomes students from age 11, meaning George could potentially begin there immediately alongside his younger siblings in future years. Sources suggest the Waleses appreciate the possibility of sending all three children — George, Charlotte, and Louis — to the same school, creating a stronger family connection and continuity.
Oundle has become particularly admired for its strengths in music, art, and environmental awareness. The school promotes sustainability initiatives and offers a broad curriculum including Latin, Ancient Greek, and even Chinese. Alumni include scientist Richard Dawkins, Iron Maiden singer Bruce Dickinson, and England rugby players Tom and Ben Curry. Its combination of academic seriousness and strong emotional support systems reportedly impressed the royal couple during their visit.
Yet perhaps the most surprising candidate is Highgate School in North London. Unlike the traditional countryside boarding schools associated with royalty, Highgate is a modern day school located in the capital. Earlier this year, rumors circulated that Princess Catherine had privately visited the institution, prompting widespread speculation that the Wales family may be reconsidering the entire concept of boarding education.
Sources close to the family claim Catherine’s recent health challenges may have reshaped her priorities. After a difficult year, she is reportedly more conscious than ever about maximizing time with her children. Choosing a London day school would allow George to continue living at home rather than boarding during term time.
