Prince George, 13, commenced his studies at the renowned Eton College on September 8, 2026, following in the footsteps of his father, Prince William. The second in line to the throne arrived at the historic institution, dressed in the school's distinctive uniform of a black tailcoat, waistcoat, and white tunic shirt.
Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, accompanied their son on his first day. They were greeted by headmaster Simon Henderson and college Provost Sir Nicholas Coleridge. "George welcome, good luck, enjoy," Henderson told the young prince. Despite the heavy rain, the family posed for a brief photocall before entering the school grounds. Kensington Palace later released three portraits of Prince George, taken by photographer Matt Porteous.
William and Catherine stayed to witness George sign the visitors' book, a tradition also followed by his father and uncle, Prince Harry, before helping him settle into his new room. The royal couple expressed gratitude for the public's respect in allowing their children to grow up away from the intense media spotlight and hope this privacy will continue for George throughout his senior school years.
Prince George's arrival contrasted sharply with his father's first day at Eton on September 6, 1995. Prince William was photographed arriving at his boarding house amidst a crowd of approximately 300 members of the media, accompanied by his parents, Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, and his younger brother, Prince Harry.
Eton College was the favored choice for Prince William and Catherine, influenced by its proximity to the family's Windsor home, the school's experience with high-profile pupils, and Prince George's own preference. Prince George is expected to be joined by friends from Lambrook, his former co-educational prep school. Prince William reportedly has fond memories of his time at Eton, citing the close friendships he formed and his ability to visit his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, at Windsor Castle.
William and Catherine hope that Prince George's time at Eton will be a happy period of development, allowing him to cultivate a strong support network of friends. Prince George is described as an outdoorsy and sporty individual with talents in triathlon and sailing, and an interest in aviation, suggesting he is likely to adapt well to school life.
Founded in 1440, Eton College originally provided free education for 70 poor boys who were destined for King's College, Cambridge. The institution is now a prestigious independent boarding school for boys aged 13 to 18.