A Defining Year for Prince George as William and Kate Confront a Sensitive Family Decision

He has largely grown up away from the spotlight, joining his parents — the Prince and Princess of Wales — only for the most significant royal occasions. But 2026 is set to be a defining year for the future King, Prince George, with major milestones on the horizon.

Not only will Prince William and Kate’s eldest son begin secondary school next September, but he will also officially enter his teenage years when he turns 13 in July. It comes as the second in line to the throne appears to be gently and gradually introduced to the royal role that lies ahead.

George currently attends Lambrook School alongside his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. His parents have occasionally shared sweet insights into his life while out on royal duties — from his fascination with planes and Airfix models to joining his father at Aston Villa football matches.

Speculation is now building over where George will continue his education when he turns 13 in September. So far, William and Kate have kept their decision firmly under wraps, though leading contenders are believed to include Eton College — where his father studied — and Marlborough College, which his mother attended.

George has previously been seen visiting Eton with his parents, while Marlborough is widely regarded as one of the UK’s top boarding schools and educates both boys and girls. However, wherever he ultimately goes, former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told the Mirror that she is confident George will have had a voice in the decision.

She said: “When William was 13, he began his secondary education at Eton College. I remember standing just a few yards away as he was welcomed by his housemaster, Dr Andrew Gailey — who went on to become a very important figure in the young Prince’s life. Both his parents were there with him, although by that stage they were officially separated.”

She continued: “William and his brother had lived through the painful breakdown of their parents’ marriage over many years. In that sense, boarding school became something of a refuge for William. George’s situation is very different — he has grown up in a home filled with love and stability.”

She added: “Because of that, it may be harder for him to suddenly move away to boarding school, if that is indeed the choice his parents make. But I’m sure it will be a decision taken together as a family, rather than something imposed on the young prince.”

Beyond the question of schooling, William and Kate also face another familiar parenting dilemma with George — one that many families across the country can relate to.

Earlier this year, William revealed that none of his children currently have smartphones, though he later admitted this position has become more challenging with his eldest son. Speaking to Luciano Huck in an interview for Brazilian television, he said: “When George moves on to secondary school, maybe he’ll be allowed one — but with limited access.”

William went on to explain: “It’s getting to the point where it’s becoming a bit of a tense issue. But I think he understands why — we explain why we don’t think it’s right.”

Jennie added: “I imagine a big question for George will be whether this is the year he’s finally allowed a smartphone. We know there’s some tension between George and his parents over this tricky subject.”

She continued: “My feeling is that he won’t be given a smartphone for a few years yet, but this could be the moment he’s allowed a basic ‘brick’ phone — so he can stay in touch with family and friends, like so many children his age.”

When it comes to public appearances, George’s outings remain relatively limited, but the past 12 months have included two of his most high-profile moments to date.

In May, he joined his parents at a Buckingham Palace tea party marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day, where he spoke with Second World War veterans. He was widely praised for listening attentively and asking thoughtful questions about their experiences.

Then, just last month, George accompanied his mother, Kate, to the Royal British Legion’s Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall, where he paid tribute to the nation’s fallen servicemen and women.

During the service, George shifted slightly in his seat between musical performances and watched closely as emotional video tributes played, featuring veterans reflecting on their experiences and honouring fallen friends and comrades.

Earlier this month, George also joined his father in helping to prepare Christmas lunch at a homeless shelter. Father and son donned The Passage charity aprons as William tipped Brussels sprouts into an oven dish, while George carefully laid Yorkshire puddings onto a tray ready for cooking.

Visiting the shelter in Victoria, central London, during the festive season has become something of a tradition for the Prince of Wales, who volunteered there in both 2023 and 2024. His first visit to the charity came when he was 11, alongside his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales — and he has now brought his own 12-year-old son to follow in his footsteps.

With the young prince growing up quickly, many have begun to speculate that more high-profile royal engagements could be on the horizon. However, William and Kate are known to be fiercely protective of their children and keen to provide them with as normal a childhood as possible.

With that in mind, Jennie added: “I don’t believe this will lead to any significant increase in his public appearances. This is a period for George to adjust to new circumstances, focus on his studies and begin preparing for important exams, while also enjoying school life. I think his parents will continue to shield him from the public spotlight for as long as they can, before the glare of royal life inevitably increases.”

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