Kate Garraway shared on Instagram that she drove her 19-year-old daughter, Darcey Draper, back to university on Sunday to begin her second year, calling the day a proud and emotional milestone.
The 58-year-old broadcaster said she spent the day packing suitcases into what she referred to as the family’s “Vicky Volvo” and taking a moment for a hot drink after dropping Darcey off. In the post, Garraway described the journey as “much more happy and jolly and positive” and wished luck to other parents and students starting new chapters.
Garraway, who co-hosts Good Morning Britain, wrote in the caption: “One daughter duly delivered to Uni … Good luck to anyone starting a new chapter this week - let's make it a good one! Happy Sunday everyone. xx #freshstarts #unilife.” She also noted the house felt quiet after the departure.
Darcey, who started university last summer, is the couple’s younger child. Her father, former political lobbyist Derek Draper, died in January aged 56 from complications related to COVID-19 after being ill since March 2020 and spending more than a year in hospital. Garraway has previously said Darcey took a family photograph and one of her late father’s Panama hats with her when she left for her first year.
In the Instagram clip shared by Garraway, an unframed family photo and the hat were visible on the backseat of the car as the pair left their north London home. The broadcaster described trying to fit the luggage into the car as a “game of jenga” and reflected on the mixture of pride and emotion that comes with sending a child to university.
Commenting on the post, television colleagues and friends offered well wishes. Good Morning Britain co-host Charlotte Hawkins wrote, “Best of luck Darcey - have an amazing time!” TV presenter Carol Vorderman added, “Wishing your girl all the happiness in the world on her new adventure.” Other commenters reflected on the bittersweet nature of children leaving home.
Garraway has been public about her family’s experience following Derek Draper’s long illness and subsequent death, and has regularly shared updates about her children and their milestones. In recent years she has balanced broadcasting with caring responsibilities and has spoken openly about the emotional toll of her husband’s condition.
Her post on Sunday was framed as encouragement to others beginning new jobs, courses or challenges this week. Garraway’s caption tagged Volvo and included hashtags referring to fresh starts and university life.