Prince George, aged seven, is third in line to the British throne, but his training for the role has already begun in a low-key manner. His parents, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, have been gradually introducing him to his future responsibilities, using child-friendly methods to avoid overwhelming him.
According to royal commentator Natalie Rankin, Kate Middleton will be 'super involved' in George's upbringing, including decisions about his schooling, hobbies, and sports. The couple has reportedly explained his royal identity in a simple way, akin to reading from a storybook, ensuring he understands without feeling pressured.
Prince William has emphasised his desire for his children to have a normal upbringing. In a 2017 interview with British GQ, he stated, 'I want George to grow up in a real, living environment... I will fight for them to have a normal life.' This approach mirrors William's own experience, as he began formal training at age 13 with lessons from the Queen at Windsor Castle.
At 26, William underwent an intensive two-year programme designed by the Queen and Prince Charles, involving work with the British government and study of constitutional law. Prince Charles reflected on his own realisation of duty on his 21st birthday, describing it as 'something that dawns on you with the most ghastly inexorable sense.'
Currently, George attends Thomas's Battersea prep school in south London alongside his sister Charlotte. While his reign is likely decades away, the foundations for his future role are being carefully laid by his parents, balancing royal tradition with a desire for normalcy.
