There is little doubt that the year 2024 was one of the most difficult years for Prince William and Princess Kate. It was a challenging time for the family because the princess underwent extensive abdominal surgery, then received a diagnosis of cancer, and proceeded to undergo chemotherapy. Nevertheless, by the time the year came to a close, she had recovered to the point where she was able to take part in high-profile royal events and organize her annual Christmas carol service.
As they move into the year 2025, according to Mirror, the Prince and Princess of Wales are confronted with yet another significant milestone: the prospect of making important choices about the future of their children, notably Prince George. It is getting close to the end of the current school year for the 11-year-old student who is second-in-line to the throne. He is attending Lambrook School. It is highly possible that he will switch schools by the time the following year comes to a close.
The month of July marks Prince George's 12th birthday, and there has been a growing amount of conjecture that he would follow in his father's footsteps and attend Eton College. Alternatively, he might go to Marlborough College, which is the same institution that his mother, Princess Kate, attended. However, as the royal children continue to mature, there are some experts who believe that these developments might neither result in an increase in royal responsibilities for Prince William and Princess Kate, nor will they result in an increased public presence for Prince George and his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
In an interview with Hello!, royal biographer Robert Jobson believes that the Prince and Princess of Wales are dedicated to maintaining a healthy balance between their relationship with their family and their royal obligations. According to his explanation, "William and Catherine have made it abundantly clear to the King that they are committed to maintaining a balance between their royal duties and their family life, and this year will be no different." Per Yahoo!, their goal is for Prince George, along with Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, to mature into well-adjusted adults who are prepared to take on the role when the time comes.
Despite the fact that the pair will be making the decision regarding Prince George's educational pursuits with his future in mind, it is anticipated that this will be a difficult option for them to make. Katie Nicholl, an expert on the royal family, points out that Prince William and Princess Kate, like their predecessors, are known for doing things on their own terms and may surprise the public with their decision. On the other hand, she stated that there is always the risk of traditions being altered. "William and Harry did not end up following in their father's footsteps by going to Gordonstoun, and it is possible that George breaks the Eton mold and ends up somewhere else," the author wrote.
During this time, Jennie Bond, an expert on royal affairs, lauded the couple for their tenacity under pressure. According to what she had to say, "I believe that William and Catherine ought to be rightly proud of their brood and proud of themselves for guiding them through this extremely challenging year." Bond also brought attention to the help that Princess Kate's parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, have provided, for they have been instrumental in both the practical and emotional aspects of the situation.
It is anticipated that the Prince and Princess of Wales will continue to make royal appearances in 2025; however, it is also anticipated that they will continue to carefully balance their family life.
Business Times has reached out to Buckingham Palace for comments.