The Princess of Wales is set to embark on a global early years crusade, starting with a visit to Italy, as she intensifies her work following her cancer recovery, according to an aide. The two-day trip to Reggio Emilia, near Bologna, beginning Wednesday, marks a 'really significant moment' for Kate, who is 'taking it up a gear' in pursuit of her 'global mission'.
Christian Guy, executive director of Kate's Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, who has travelled to Italy, said early years development holds the same urgency as other global issues such as climate change. Kate revealed at the start of last year that she was in remission after receiving chemotherapy for an undisclosed form of cancer. This is her first major international visit since December 2022, when she went to Boston with the Prince of Wales for the Earthshot Prize ceremony.
An aide to the princess said: 'Undoubtedly, this is a huge moment for the princess. Although there will be many highlights of 2026, I think this being her first official international visit, post her recovery, I think this is a really significant moment for her.' For more than a decade, early years has been central to the future Queen's public work. The visit follows the launch of a new resource for people working with youngsters and their families from the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.
During her visit, Kate will learn about the Reggio Emilia Approach, a teaching method that stresses the importance of parents, educators, and environment – 'the third teacher' – surrounding a child. The aide added: 'She's looking forward to being here, she's energised, she's enthused, she's excited to see Reggio Emilia in action and meet the people here too.' They went on to say: 'She wants to look at other models around the world and really create a global conversation.'
Kate will be welcomed by the city's mayor, Marco Massari, who will present her with the city's highest honour in recognition of her early years work during a town hall ceremony. The reception will feature civil leaders and key figures who played a role in shaping the education philosophy. The foundation's executive director said: 'Building on her UK and international work in this area for many years, the princess is here with her Centre for Early Childhood to lead a new global conversation about this... Therefore, we will aim to build a global alliance and shape a blueprint for lifelong human wellbeing and connection around the world.'
