Being part of one of the most famous families in the world certainly comes with its advantages, but it also presents a unique set of challenges, especially for Prince George.

Now an 11-year-old boy, he holds immense responsibility as the second in line to the British throne.

Despite this monumental role, his parents, Prince William and Princess Catherine, strive to provide him with as normal an upbringing as possible.

The royal family may live under the constant gaze of the public, but like any family, they face everyday dilemmas, one of which recently involved an important decision about George’s schooling.

Prince William and Princess Catherine have consistently emphasized the importance of a balanced and relatively normal childhood for their children. A key decision they face is where to send Prince George for his next stage of education. With Catherine’s dedication to early childhood development and reducing inequality, the school they choose could offer insight into their parenting approach. Will they send George to a prestigious boarding school like Eton, where many royals, including William, studied, or will they opt for a different path altogether?

Prince George’s involvement in major royal events has also been under the spotlight. In May 2023, he was chosen to be a page of honor at King Charles’s coronation, which was a significant honor for the young prince. However, he had a specific request that broke with tradition: George did not want to wear the traditional white knee britches for the ceremony because he feared being teased at Lambrook School in Berkshire, where he attends alongside his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. King Charles accommodated his grandson’s request, allowing the pages to wear trousers instead.

When it comes to schooling decisions, there is speculation about whether all three of William and Catherine’s children—George, Charlotte, and Louis—will attend boarding school or remain closer to home. Some believe that given the couple’s emphasis on nurturing their children during their formative years, the Wales family might choose to keep their kids at a nearby day school. This decision, particularly for George, could shape not only his educational experience but also how the royal family navigates modern parenting while fulfilling royal duties.

King Charles’s own schooling experiences may influence his views on education for his grandchildren. Charles famously attended Gordonstoun, a strict boarding school in Scotland, but he opted to send his sons to Eton College in London. William, who thrived at Eton, may take a similar approach for George. However, for Princess Catherine, her school experiences were mixed. She was reportedly unsettled and unhappy during her time at a previous boarding school, though no serious bullying was reported. She eventually transferred to Marlborough College, where she flourished.

At Marlborough, Catherine found her stride. The transition marked a significant change for her, both socially and academically. According to her former classmates, she became a standout student, excelling in sports like hockey and cross-country running. Her confidence grew, and she quickly gained attention from her peers. Former teachers recall how Catherine’s self-assurance blossomed during her time at Marlborough, where she also experienced her first romantic relationship.

Part of Catherine’s transformation was attributed to her physical appearance; she had recently had her braces removed, marking a turning point in how she was perceived by her peers. Former classmates and teachers noted how her beauty and confidence shone during this time. Catherine’s natural athleticism and leadership qualities made her popular, and she soon became one of the most admired students at the school.

Catherine’s experiences in school, especially the challenges she faced before transferring, may influence how she and William approach decisions regarding their children’s education. Given Catherine’s sensitivity to the pressures of boarding school life, it’s possible the royal couple will be cautious in deciding George’s next steps.

As discussions around Prince George’s schooling continue, it’s clear that the choices William and Catherine make for their children will be closely scrutinized. However, one thing remains certain: the couple is committed to providing their children with the best possible foundation for their future royal roles and personal development. Balancing tradition with modern values, they navigate the pressures of raising the future king in a way that prioritizes family health and education.

Ultimately, Prince George’s path, much like his mother’s, will likely be influenced by the experiences of those around him. Whether he attends a prestigious boarding school like Eton or stays closer to home, the royal family’s focus on nurturing their children will undoubtedly guide their decisions. For now, the world watches closely, curious to see how the young prince’s journey will unfold.