Royal Dilemma: Prince George’s Hunt for the Perfect School

The search for a secondary school fit for Prince George, the young heir to the throne, seems to be in full swing.

Speculations suggest that he might be enrolled in a prestigious institution costing £34,000 per year, as concerns arise that the £47-a-year Marlborough College, attended by his mother, may be too ostentatious.

Royal expert Richard Eden disclosed in a recent post that the Prince and Princess of Wales recently visited St. Edward's Independent School in their quest to select the ideal educational establishment for their eldest son.

With an annual fee of £47,000, St. Edward's Independent School in Oxfordshire captured the attention of William and Catherine.

The school's standout feature, the Olivier Hall, a state-of-the-art theatre reminiscent of Oxford's renowned Sheldonian Theatre, impressed the royal couple.

Notably, the designers of this remarkable space were honored with a Rebus South Award in 2022 by the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Reports indicate that the Wales also explored Undul School as a potential option for Prince George's education.

Situated in the picturesque town of Undul in Northamptonshire, Undul School aligns with the environmental values championed by environmentalist King Charles Hart.

This co-educational institution, established in 1556, blends tradition with a contemporary approach.

Sources suggest that the family is contemplating whether boarding at Undul from the age of 11 would suit George, emphasizing Princess Catherine's desire for a school that fosters humility and suits all her children.

Amidst concerns that Marlborough College has evolved into a choice favored by affluent families, the Middletons' previous attendance contributing to its allure, there are apprehensions about its current environment being overly opulent.

Speculations hint at a shift towards a more glamorous setting at Marlborough, contrasting with Catherine's preference for understated wealth.

The prospect of enrolling their children in a co-educational school seems to align with the security team's preferences.

While the decision on Prince George's schooling commencing in September remains pending, the possibility of him following in the footsteps of his father and uncle by attending Eton College is being contemplated.

William initially favored Eton, his alma mater, located near Windsor, despite its exclusively male student body.

George recently underwent ISEB examinations, akin to the 11-plus assessment, encompassing English, math, verbal, and non-verbal reasoning.

Subsequently, the results will be forwarded to the top boarding schools for further consideration, potentially leading to additional assessments and interviews.

Discussing the rigorous interview process awaiting Prince George, James Mitchell, co-founder of Think Tutors, emphasized the unpredictability and stress-testing nature of such interactions.

He highlighted the importance of genuine responses and cited examples of questions posed during Eton interviews, aiming to gauge the candidate's character and values.

Mitchell underscored the significance of authenticity and critical thinking in formulating responses, essential qualities sought in prospective students.

As the anticipation mounts regarding Prince George's educational journey, the deliberations surrounding his schooling choice reflect a blend of tradition, prestige, and the royal family's aspirations for a well-rounded upbringing.

The meticulous selection process underscores the gravity of the decision and the intricate considerations involved in shaping the future of a young prince destined for a life of immense responsibility and privilege.