Prince George begins at Eton College as he steps closer to the throne

Under a steady drizzle, Prince George, the 13‑year‑old second in line to the British throne, arrived at Eton College for his first day of secondary education. He was greeted by the school’s headmaster Simon Henderson, who told the future monarch, "Welcome, good luck, enjoy it."

Royal tradition continues

The decision places the young royal at a school that has educated his father, Prince William, and his uncle, Prince Harry, as well as a host of former prime ministers and cultural figures. Eton, located in Berkshire, charges more than £63,000 a year in fees, a sum the royal household will cover despite the campus being only a few kilometres from their home in Windsor. Boarding will be part of George’s routine, mirroring the experience of many of his predecessors.

Implications for the monarchy

George’s enrolment arrives on the fourth anniversary of King Charles III’s accession, a day marked by a gun salute in central London. Over the next five years, his progress at the school will be closely watched by the media and the public, offering a glimpse into how the next generation of royalty navigates modern expectations while preserving tradition.

While the school’s historic uniform and rituals remain unchanged, the prince’s presence may renew debate about the role of elite education in a society increasingly focused on equality and opportunity.