The Princess of Wales is set to embark on a global mission to transform early years development, beginning with a two-day visit to Reggio Emilia in northern Italy on Wednesday. The trip marks her first international travel since being diagnosed with cancer in February 2024, and aides describe her as 'energised and enthused'.
During the visit, the Princess will explore the Reggio Emilia Approach, an educational philosophy emphasising children’s potential for self-development. She will tour institutions including the Loris Malaguzzi International Centre and local early years settings, aiming to learn how shared principles around creativity, relationships, and environment can be applied globally.
The future Queen, who underwent preventative chemotherapy and announced remission in 2025, intends to lead a 'global conversation' on early childhood development. The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, which she established in 2021, plans to create an international network of collaborators to develop a blueprint for holistic child development.
Kensington Palace highlighted the significance of the trip, stating it is an important step in her recovery journey and reflects her commitment to championing early years issues for decades. The Princess will also receive the First Tricolore award from Reggio Emilia’s mayor, recognising her work to prioritise children’s rights.
Christian Guy, Executive Director of the Centre, described the visit as a vital step in Kate’s future work. The Princess, who spent part of her gap year in Florence, hopes to identify positive solutions to social challenges by investing in early childhood with the same urgency as climate change.
