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Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, is confronting a significant decision regarding the next step in her eldest son Prince George's education. As Prince George prepares to conclude his studies at Lambrook, his current prep school, the royal couple faces differing opinions on what comes next. Prince William hopes his 11-year-old son will follow in his footsteps by enrolling at the esteemed all-boys boarding school Eton. However, sources reveal that Kate Middleton prefers George to attend a co-educational institution like Marlborough College in Wiltshire, her own alma mater.

According to royal expert Katie Nicholl, Princess Kate believes that a mixed-sex school would offer George a more inclusive environment. She recalls her own positive experiences at Marlborough College, where she attended alongside her sister Pippa and brother James. In contrast, William has cherished memories of Eton, a school deeply rooted in tradition and favored by aristocrats and the royal family.

Prince George reportedly supports the idea of attending Eton, but Kate is said to be distressed by the prospect, viewing the institution as overly formal. Nicholl notes that the Prince and Princess of Wales might consider an alternative to the traditional choices. Reflecting on past departures from tradition, such as William and Harry not attending their father’s alma mater, Gordonstoun, she suggests that George might also break the mould and opt for a different school entirely.

Ultimately, any decision will prioritize George's best interests, balancing both William’s and Kate’s perspectives. Historically, royal children have either been home-schooled or attended boarding schools. King Charles III, along with his sons William and Harry, all experienced boarding schooling. Charles began at Cheam School at the age of eight, becoming the first heir to attend a "civilian" school. William and Harry later attended Ludgrove School in Berkshire before moving on to Eton.

Currently, Prince George, along with his siblings Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, is enrolled at Lambrook. The trio initially attended Thomas’s school in Battersea before the family moved to Adelaide Cottage in 2022. Their current school provides a sense of stability, especially during challenging times, including Katherine's recent battle with cancer.

Kate Middleton, who has been recovering from her illness, is preparing to resume her public responsibilities. Following her abdominal surgery and subsequent cancer diagnosis in January, she has largely stayed out of the public eye. Fortunately, she announced in September that she is now cancer-free and is optimistic about her return to royal duties in 2025.

As Kate continues her recovery and transitions back into her role, the couple remains focused on making the best decision for Prince George’s education, ensuring it aligns with his needs and their family’s values.