Prince George has officially started a new chapter in his education at Eton College, with his parents, Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, accompanying him on his first day.
The 13-year-old arrived at the prestigious Berkshire boarding school on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. The milestone marks George’s move from Lambrook School to one of Britain’s best-known independent schools.
The young royal was welcomed by Eton’s head master, Simon Henderson, and Provost Sir Nicholas Coleridge. Henderson greeted George with a brief message of welcome and encouragement.
Prince George Arrives at Eton With His Parents
Prince George arrived at Eton alongside Prince William and Kate. The family walked together through the school’s historic grounds before George began his new school life.
Images from the arrival showed the family braving rainy weather as they made their way across the school grounds. Kate was seen accompanying her son while William walked alongside them.
George wore a smart suit and tie for the occasion. His first day attracted considerable attention because of his position as second in line to the British throne.
For George, however, the occasion represents more than a royal appearance. It is the beginning of his teenage years at a new school and his first experience of life at Eton.
Eton Continues a Family Tradition
Prince George’s choice of school has a strong family connection.
His father, Prince William, attended Eton College after starting there at the age of 13 in 1995. George’s uncle, Prince Harry, also studied at the school.
William’s own first day at Eton took place 31 years before George’s arrival. His parents, then Prince Charles and Princess Diana, accompanied him for the occasion.
George’s enrollment therefore continues an important educational link between the future king and his father.
What Is Eton College Like?
Eton College is a historic independent boarding school for boys aged 13 to 18. The school is located in Eton, Berkshire, close to Windsor Castle.
According to Eton’s official information, the school has around 1,350 boys and operates as a boarding community.
Its admissions process includes academic assessment and consideration of whether students will thrive in the boarding environment.
Eton’s standard entry point is at age 13, meaning George is beginning at the school’s traditional Year 9 entry stage.
The school is also known for its long history and prominent alumni. Its former pupils include British political figures, writers and actors.
George Is Beginning as a Boarder
Eton is a boarding school, so George’s move represents a significant change from his previous education.
He previously attended Lambrook School in Berkshire with his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. George is now starting the next stage of his education separately from them.
The location of Eton also means the school remains relatively close to the Wales family’s home in Windsor.
A Major Moment for the Future King
George’s first day comes at an important point in his life.
As the eldest child of Prince William and Kate, he is expected to eventually become king. Yet his school experience is being shaped around his education and development rather than only his future constitutional role.
His move to Eton also follows the traditional age at which boys enter the school.
Eton says its 13+ admissions process is designed to consider both academic ability and whether a student will be comfortable in its boarding environment.
The school has also emphasized the importance of boys developing their own interests and contributing to school life.
Prince William and Kate Support George’s New Chapter
Having both parents accompany George on his first day offered a glimpse of the family’s support as he enters a new stage of adolescence.
For William, the occasion also brings back memories of his own time at Eton. His son is now experiencing the same school environment more than three decades later.
The moment also highlights how quickly George’s education is moving toward a more independent stage.
While Charlotte and Louis remain at Lambrook, George has begun his own path at Eton.
Eton’s Role in George’s Education
Eton’s official admissions information states that boys entering at 13 typically go through a detailed assessment process before receiving a place.
The school also provides boarding houses where pupils live as part of the wider school community.
For George, the next several years will therefore combine academic study with boarding-school life, extracurricular activities and the traditions associated with Eton.
His first day marks the start of that journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Prince George attending Eton College?
Prince George has begun his education at Eton College as he enters the traditional age for the school’s Year 9 intake. His father, Prince William, and uncle, Prince Harry, also attended Eton.
How old is Prince George?
Prince George is 13 years old. He began his first day at Eton College on September 8, 2026.
Did Prince William attend Eton College?
Yes. Prince William started at Eton in 1995 at the age of 13 and attended the school before studying at the University of St Andrews.
Is Eton College a boarding school?
Yes. Eton College is an independent boarding school for boys aged 13 to 18.
Where did Prince George go to school before Eton?
Before Eton, Prince George attended Lambrook School in Berkshire. His younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, also attended Lambrook.