The Prince and Princess of Wales are facing a challenging decision regarding the future education of their elder son, Prince George.
Amidst deliberations, a new contender has emerged as a potential secondary school for the young prince.
Oondal schools, known for nurturing students who champion climate causes while embodying traits of decency, ambition, and humility, have caught the attention of the royal couple.
Reports from a close source within the royal family suggest that Oondal schools have been added to the top choices for Prince George’s secondary education.
This decision comes as a contrast to the possibility of sending him to Marlborough School in Buckinghamshire, Prince Charles’s alma mater, where the fees amount to a staggering £47,000 per year.
Concerns have been raised about Marlborough potentially projecting a flashy image, contrary to the Princess of Wales’ preference for understated elegance.
The quest for the ideal educational institution has led the royal couple to explore various options, including their own alma maters – William’s Eaton and Catherine’s Marlborough College.
However, Oondal, a co-educational school located in North Northamptonshire with an annual fee of £35,000, has emerged as a frontrunner in the decision-making process.
Established in 1556, Oondal prides itself on its unique campus layout, with buildings scattered across the town and shared with local residents.
The school’s ethos revolves around fostering a sense of community among its pupils, referred to as Oondalians.
Headteacher Sarah Curdeneen, a graduate of both Oxford and Cambridge, describes the students at Oondal as individuals who prioritize emotional intelligence and value interpersonal relationships.
During a visit to Marlborough, where Prince George’s aunt and uncle, Pippa and James, were also educated, concerns were raised about the school’s evolving image.
The rise in popularity among affluent families, drawn by associations with the Middletons, has led to perceptions of Marlborough becoming overly ostentatious.
This shift may not align with the Princess of Wales’ preference for modest wealth and understated elegance.
While initially considering Eton for Prince George, which is a boys-only institution located near Windsor, the royal couple is contemplating whether the young prince would be comfortable boarding at Oundal from the age of 11.
One of the appealing factors of Oundal is its co-educational setup, allowing all of the Wales’ children to potentially attend the same school, a prospect favored by their security team.
With a rich history dating back to 1556, Oundal emphasizes a modern approach to education while instilling a strong sense of community among its students.
The school’s commitment to environmental sustainability and fostering eco-consciousness among its pupils sets it apart as a forward-thinking educational institution.
As the royal family navigates this pivotal decision regarding Prince George’s education, the choice between tradition and innovation looms large, reflecting broader considerations of legacy and values in an ever-changing world.