Prince William and Princess Kate have announced that their eldest son, Prince George, will attend Eton College this September. Kensington Palace released a short statement confirming the news, which comes just before the royal children's summer break.
The Daily Express can exclusively reveal that the decision was made six months earlier, in January. A royal insider stated: "Prince George is really looking forward to going to Eton. They settled the decision in January but mum and dad wanted to wait a little longer before it was officially announced."
Why the Wait?
The Prince and Princess of Wales are keen to safeguard their children's privacy despite their public roles. The insider noted that the decision wasn't easy, as the family also considered Marlborough College, Catherine's alma mater in Wiltshire. The co-educational boarding school appealed to Catherine, who enjoyed studying alongside her siblings.
However, Eton's proximity to the family home in Windsor was the deciding factor. "The decision wasn't just about George, they had to factor in Charlotte and Louis as well," the source said. "But ultimately they wanted him to stay near the family."
Family Focus
William and Catherine moved to Forest Lodge on the Windsor Estate in November, an eight-bedroom Georgian mansion described as their "forever home." The move marked a fresh start after Catherine's cancer diagnosis and treatment. Now in remission and back to royal duties, the couple are focused on making new memories as a family of five.
George, Charlotte, and Louis are "the centre of their universe," according to a source. Enrolling George in a school close to home allows the family to spend precious time together after what William has called a "brutal" few years.
William, who attended Eton himself, is thrilled that his son will follow in his footsteps. The insider added: "William is thrilled that his son wanted to follow in his footsteps. He's incredibly proud."
