The Royal Family is carefully ushering in its next generation, with Prince George of Wales beginning his training for future royal responsibilities. This strategic move comes as the number of senior working royals has significantly decreased, placing a greater onus on the young heirs to the throne.
A New Royal in the Making
The 12-year-old future king recently made a significant appearance alongside his mother, the Princess of Wales, at the Festival of Remembrance held at the Royal Albert Hall. This poignant event, which honours the war dead, is considered a cornerstone engagement for the monarchy. According to royal expert Richard Eden, this was not merely an isolated outing but part of a deliberate plan. He describes it as Catherine "gently leading the way and really showing how Prince George could handle public engagements in the future."
This appearance follows a pattern of carefully selected public duties for George. Earlier this year, he joined his father, Prince William, at a high-profile UEFA Champions League quarterfinal match in Paris. Just a month later, he was by the side of both his parents at a veteran's tea party in Buckingham Palace, part of the VE Day commemorations. On that occasion, commentators noted his ability to engage in genuine conversation with veterans, demonstrating a maturity beyond his years.
The Driving Forces Behind the Early Training
The royal roster has seen notable reductions, creating a need to prepare the younger members sooner. The departure of Prince Harry and the effective removal of Prince Andrew from public life have left a gap in the number of royals available to undertake official engagements. This has accelerated the process of introducing Prince George, who is second in line to the throne, to the demands of his future role.
Eden believes this is a conscious strategy by the Prince and Princess of Wales, stating they are "carefully introducing" their son and that the public should expect to see George at many more similar events in the coming years. The focus is on events that hold personal significance for the family and align with George's own interests, making the transition into public life more natural.
Life Beyond Royal Duties
Despite his increasing royal profile, Prince George's life remains that of a typical schoolboy, for the most part. He lives with his parents, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, at the family's new home, Forest Lodge. The young prince is currently in his final year of primary education at Lambrook School and is set to begin secondary school in 2026.
One modern dilemma facing the Wales household is the issue of technology. Prince William has openly admitted that the topic of mobile phones has caused "tension" at home. In a candid interview, the future king revealed that his children do not currently have phones, though he acknowledged that this may need to change when George moves to secondary school, potentially with strictly limited access.
This blend of ancient tradition and contemporary parenting challenges illustrates the unique path Prince George is walking as he prepares for his destiny, guided by a modernising monarchy keen on a gradual and thoughtful introduction to duty.
