Princess Kate’s Hands-On Approach: Why She Insists on Personal School Runs for George, Charlotte, and Louis
Princess Kate’s Dedication to the School Run
Princess Kate, the Princess of Wales, has always been known for her hands-on approach to motherhood. Despite having a dedicated royal nanny, Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo, who has been a loyal member of the family’s staff since 2014, Kate insists on undertaking the school runs herself. This commitment underscores her dedication to being actively involved in her children’s lives, particularly when it comes to raising Prince George, the future king.
The Importance of Being Present
According to a profile by The Times, Princess Kate feels a great sense of responsibility to “get it right” in parenting her eldest son, Prince George. A key aspect of this is ensuring her presence during school runs and sporting events. This involvement is crucial for Kate, as it allows her to stay connected with her children’s daily lives and activities.
The School Run: A Royal Duty
Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis attend Lambrook School near the family’s home at Forest Lodge in Windsor. George, who is 12, will soon be heading off to secondary school, with Eton College and Marlborough College being the frontrunners. These institutions hold special significance as they are the alma maters of Prince William and Princess Kate, respectively.
The Role of a Norland Nanny
Louenna Hood, a nanny trained at the prestigious Norland College, shared insights into the typical duties of a Norland nanny. These duties often include organizing school pick-ups and managing the logistics of after-school sports and clubs. However, Princess Kate has taken on these responsibilities herself, demonstrating her commitment to her children’s upbringing.
Kate’s Public Appearances During School Runs
While Kate primarily handles the school run in private, there have been occasions when she has been photographed dropping her children off. In 2022, both Prince William and Princess Kate were seen dropping their children off for their first day at Lambrook School. This public appearance highlighted Kate’s hands-on approach and her dedication to her children’s education.
The Move to Windsor
The family’s move to Windsor, where they initially lived at Adelaide Cottage before moving to Forest Lodge at the end of 2025, marked a significant change. Previously, they resided at Kensington Palace, which was near George and Charlotte’s former school, Thomas’ Battersea. This move underscored the family’s commitment to providing a stable and nurturing environment for their children.
Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits
In addition to managing school runs, a Norland nanny’s duties also include planning meals and encouraging children to try new foods. Louenna Hood revealed that Norland nannies are trained to offer small, manageable portions to children, ensuring they are not overwhelmed. This approach helps children develop a healthy relationship with food.
The Benefits of a Hands-On Approach
Dr. Sasha Hall, a senior education and child psychologist, explained the benefits of this approach. According to Dr. Hall, children are more motivated when they feel a sense of control. Providing structured choices, such as offering small portions, encourages participation without creating power struggles. This method frames eating as a choice rather than a test, fostering a positive relationship with food.
Conclusion
Princess Kate’s hands-on approach to motherhood, particularly her insistence on handling the school runs herself, underscores her dedication to her children’s upbringing. By being actively involved in their daily lives, Kate ensures that she plays a crucial role in shaping their future. Her commitment to being present for school runs and sporting events highlights her deep sense of responsibility as a mother and a future queen.