Prince George, the eldest child of Prince William and Princess Catherine, officially became a teenager on July 22, marking a significant step in his preparation for future royal responsibilities. At 13, he is second in line to the British throne and is set to begin his first year at Eton College in September, a prestigious boarding school in Berkshire, England, with notable ties to British history and the royal family.
Eton, which has educated numerous British prime ministers and members of the aristocracy, is located less than 10 miles from the family’s Windsor home, Forest Lodge. Both Prince William and his estranged brother, Prince Harry, attended the institution. While George will board there during the week, his parents have eased certain restrictions, including allowing the use of a basic mobile phone—likely a simple “brick” model without internet or social media access—to help him stay connected while limiting exposure to online negativity. The school is reportedly taking measures to protect George’s privacy, discouraging students from sharing photos or information about him.
The transition to secondary school is a notable change for George, who, according to sources close to the family, is “greatly excited” about this new chapter. His parents have been preparing him gradually for his future role as monarch, introducing him to royal duties and public engagements in a measured way. For instance, George has attended events such as a tea party for war veterans and the Festival of Remembrance. His upbringing emphasizes a balance between royal obligations and a relatively normal childhood, with family holidays and parental support at the school gates prioritized.
William and Catherine are also mindful of the dynamics within the royal family, seeking to maintain close bonds among George and his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, in light of recent family tensions. They encourage their children’s individual paths while ensuring the monarchy adapts to contemporary expectations.
Looking ahead, questions remain about how traditions such as military service might apply to George. Military duty has historically been significant for senior royals; William himself served in the Royal Air Force and Navy, while Harry pursued an active military career. Some experts suggest it is likely George will follow his father’s example, although definitive plans have not been announced.
George has also begun to participate in charitable activities. In December 2025, he joined William in volunteering at Passage, a London homeless shelter favored by both William and his late mother, Princess Diana. This marked an early step in his public service, reflecting the family’s ongoing commitment to social causes.
As Prince George enters adolescence, his parents emphasize their intention to modernize the monarchy for future generations. William has expressed a desire to create a role for his son that is meaningful and impactful, one that allows George to take pride in his responsibilities while addressing the evolving demands of the institution he will one day lead.