As the third in line to the British throne, Prince George’s preparation for his future role as king is subject to much speculation and interest. Unlike his predecessors, Prince William and Prince Charles, George’s training is expected to take a markedly different approach, reflecting the evolving nature of the monarchy and the modern world in which it operates. Royal children are privy to a number of strict rules they must follow, from the length of their trousers to the way that they travel. However, our favorite rule break of all time has to be when Prince George flouted the strict dress code to meet heads of state by wearing his dressing gown.
Cast your mind back to 2016. The young royal was pictured blurry-eyed with sleep as he shook the President of the United States, Barack Obama’s, hand during a state visit at Buckingham Palace. His outfit of choice was a monogrammed robe teamed with gingham pajamas and the sweetest airplane slippers. His parents were hosting a dinner for Obama and the First Lady, Michelle Obama, allowing little George to stay up past his bedtime to meet them. Poor George was up well past his bedtime, so his unusual attire was allowed. It has been widely reported that royal children aren’t allowed to meet heads of state; however, this simply isn’t the case, as the Wales children have previously met Canada’s Justin Trudeau and Boris Johnson when he was Prime Minister of the UK. What was a breach of protocol, however, was George’s little outfit. Obama amusingly commented on the adorable moment at the time, joking that it was a slap in the face.
The British monarchy has undergone significant changes over the past few decades, adapting to shifts in public sentiment and societal expectations. Prince George’s upbringing and training are likely to continue this trend, emphasizing a more modern and relatable image of royalty. While tradition remains important, there is a growing recognition that the future king must also be seen as accessible and in touch with contemporary issues. This approach is expected to shape George’s education and experiences.
At his young age, Prince George knows he has a huge destiny ahead of him. He turns 11 in July 2024. Unlike Grandpa King Charles III, the young royal will have a bigger say in the road he takes to the throne. Royal biographer Robert Hardman has noted that King Charles’ schooling and military service were laid out for him by a committee, dictating his path. In contrast, Prince William was allowed more leeway in his life choices and is expected to give his son the same courtesy. More importantly, Hardman says, William and Katherine are working together to help their son ease into his responsibilities so they won’t seem too daunting. There is a belief in making it as unobtrusive and normal—if you could call it normal—as pleasant as possible.
Prince George’s path to kingship is set to be distinctly different from that of his father and grandfather. By incorporating modern values, broad educational experiences, and a focus on mental well-being, his training will aim to create a well-rounded, empathetic, and relatable future king. Prince William and Princess Katherine have consistently aimed to provide their children with a sense of normalcy despite their royal status. Prince George, along with his siblings, attends a mainstream school and participates in everyday activities. This grounding in normal childhood experiences is expected to be a key component of his preparation for the throne.
Growing up in the digital age, Prince George will need to navigate the complexities of media and public engagement in ways that previous generations did not. His training will likely include a focus on media literacy, public speaking, and effective use of social media. By allowing George to grow up in a relatively ordinary environment, the Prince and Princess of Wales hope to foster a sense of empathy and understanding that will be crucial for his future role. This approach contrasts with the more secluded and traditional upbringing of previous heirs.
Prince George’s preparation for the throne involves more than just adhering to royal protocols and traditions. His parents are mindful of the need to balance royal duties with personal development, ensuring that George grows up with a sense of responsibility but also a genuine connection to the world around him. This modern approach includes exposing him to diverse cultures, contemporary issues, and the importance of mental health, preparing him to be a monarch who understands and can relate to the people he will one day serve.
Education will play a pivotal role in Prince George’s development. Unlike the rigid and predetermined educational paths of past royals, George’s schooling is expected to be more flexible and encompassing a wider array of subjects. This modern educational approach aims to equip him with critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and a broader perspective on global affairs. His parents’ involvement in his education ensures that it aligns with both traditional values and contemporary relevance.
In addition to formal education, Prince George’s upbringing will include practical experiences that prepare him for his future role. These might involve participating in public engagements, learning about the workings of government and the Commonwealth, and understanding the intricacies of international diplomacy. By gradually introducing these elements into his life, William and Katherine aim to build George’s confidence and competence in fulfilling his royal duties.
The emphasis on mental well-being is another significant aspect of George’s training. Recognizing the pressures and scrutiny that come with royal life, his parents are likely to ensure that he has access to support systems that help him manage stress and maintain a healthy mental state. This focus on mental health reflects a broader societal shift towards recognizing its importance and is a marked departure from the stiff-upper-lip approach of previous generations.
Prince George’s relationship with his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, also plays a crucial role in his development. Growing up with close-knit family bonds provides him with a support system that is both emotionally grounding and practically beneficial. The sibling dynamic offers a sense of normalcy and companionship, helping to mitigate the isolation that can sometimes accompany royal life.
Furthermore, Prince George’s training will likely involve understanding the media landscape and how to effectively engage with it. In an era where public perception is heavily influenced by media representation, developing media literacy skills is essential. This includes knowing how to interact with the press, understanding the impact of social media, and using these platforms to communicate effectively with the public. By mastering these skills, George can ensure that he maintains a positive and authentic public image.
Another important aspect of his upbringing is the instillation of values such as empathy, humility, and service. Through various charitable activities and community engagements, George will learn the importance of giving back and understanding the needs of others. This value-based upbringing aims to foster a sense of duty and compassion, ensuring that he remains connected to the people he will one day lead.
The changing role of the monarchy in contemporary society means that Prince George’s future as king will involve navigating a complex and often challenging landscape. His preparation will need to be adaptive and forward-thinking, equipping him with the tools to address the evolving expectations of a modern monarch. This includes being attuned to social issues, promoting inclusivity, and advocating for environmental sustainability.
In conclusion, Prince George’s path to the throne is being carefully crafted to balance tradition with modernity. His upbringing reflects a blend of royal protocols and contemporary values, aiming to produce a well-rounded, empathetic, and capable future king. Through a combination of formal education, practical experiences, and a focus on mental well-being, George is being prepared to meet the demands of his future role with confidence and grace. As the monarchy continues to evolve, Prince George’s training will serve as a testament to the enduring relevance and adaptability of the British royal family.
