Prince George is poised to begin his secondary education at Eton College this autumn, according to royal sources. The 12-year-old future king has reportedly passed the common entrance exam, and an official announcement is expected next week.
Decision After School Visits
For months, the Prince and Princess of Wales toured several prospective schools, including Marlborough College (Kate's alma mater), St Edward's School in Oxford, and Oundle School in Northamptonshire. However, speculation about Oundle suggested it might be for Princess Charlotte instead.
Ultimately, Eton's all-boys status was a key factor. A source told the Daily Mail: "We're in the smartphone era. Any picture of George with a girl could be around the world in a moment, however innocent the kiss might be." Security and proximity to the family's Windsor home also played roles.
Kate's Reported Reluctance
Despite the decision, Kate Middleton was reportedly "heartbroken" about sending George away. In 2024, an insider told In Touch Weekly that Kate "finally gave in" after long disagreeing with Prince William, viewing Eton as contrary to their efforts to modernize the monarchy.
Eton, which costs £63,000 per year, has produced 20 prime ministers, including David Cameron and Boris Johnson. The family will remain at their Windsor home, even after William becomes king.
