Prince William and Princess Kate have been observed visiting Oundle School in Northamptonshire, a prominent boarding institution with annual fees approaching £59,000. This visit, occurring on Friday afternoon, is part of their ongoing deliberation over where to place Prince George, the second in line to the throne, for his secondary education. The couple were seen walking through the town following the reported school visit.
George, currently 12 years old, attends Lambrook School in Berkshire alongside his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. He is slated to finish his primary education at Lambrook this summer. The selection of a secondary school for the future king is a significant decision, and Oundle School, a co-educational establishment now ranked as the third-largest boarding school in England, has reportedly been a favored option for the Waleses over the past few years.
Read More: Prince George, Charlotte, Louis Help Name New Kangaroo Cwtch
The Royal couple's discreet inquiries into Oundle School highlight the weight of tradition and contemporary choices in shaping the education of a future monarch. The family's preference for proximity to their home at Adelaide Cottage in Berkshire might be weighed against the perceived advantages of institutions like Oundle.
Other Educational Pathways Considered
While Oundle School appears to be a strong contender, it is not the only institution under consideration. Other prominent schools have also been mentioned as potential choices for Prince George. These include:
Eton College: A historic all-boys boarding school with a long-standing royal connection, having been attended by both Prince William and his brother, Prince Harry.
Marlborough College: A co-educational boarding school in Wiltshire, which Princess Kate, Pippa Middleton, and James Middleton all attended.
Reports suggest that Marlborough College has been a preferred choice for the Princess of Wales, potentially representing a significant break from established royal tradition if selected.
A Glimpse into the Decision-Making Process
Details surrounding the Prince and Princess of Wales's deliberations remain largely private, with a spokesperson for the couple declining to comment on their visit to Oundle. The "eye-wateringly expensive" nature of these institutions underscores the substantial financial commitment involved in private education for the heir. Previous reports from late 2023 indicated a decision might have already been made in favor of Marlborough College, though recent observations suggest the evaluation process is ongoing.
Read More: DOJ Says UCLA Medical School Used Race Illegally in Admissions
The selection of Prince George's secondary school is a matter of considerable public interest, touching upon themes of continuity, individual preference, and the evolving landscape of elite education. The young prince is expected to transition to his new school in September.
