Prince William's Eton Absence: Royal Duty Clashes with Son's First Day

Key points

• Prince William is scheduled to attend the state funeral of King Harald V of Norway at Oslo Cathedral on September 9, representing King Charles in accordance with royal protocol.
• The funeral coincides with the start of the Michaelmas term at Eton College, where Prince George begins his first year of boarding school.
• Princess Kate is not confirmed for the funeral, suggesting she will likely accompany Prince George to Eton, as the couple traditionally prioritize school drop-offs.
• King Harald V, who died on August 28 at age 89, was a modernizing monarch who reigned for 35 years and is described as a 'people's king.'
• Princess Anne will also attend the funeral in a personal capacity, as she is the godmother of Norway's new monarch, King Haakon VIII.

Background

Prince George's move to Eton follows a summer of public appearances with his family, including the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The family recently spent a week at Balmoral with King Charles and Queen Camilla before the children prepared for the new school term. This transition marks the first time George will live permanently away from home, a change previously described by royal experts as emotionally significant for the family unit.

How outlets are covering it

While all outlets confirm William's attendance at the funeral, they differ in emphasis. Woman & Home highlights the personal conflict, noting that William may miss George's first day due to flight schedules and the importance of the state occasion. The BBC and The Guardian focus on the diplomatic protocol, noting that the monarch typically does not attend foreign head-of-state funerals, a duty previously fulfilled by William at the funeral of Pope Francis. The Guardian also notes the personal connection between the late Queen Elizabeth II and King Harald, who were second cousins. Yahoo News provides a broader international perspective, noting the attendance of Princess Charlene of Monaco and other European royals, emphasizing the event's significance across royal houses.

Why it matters

This event illustrates the tension between royal duty and family life for senior members of the British Royal Family. It highlights the transition of Prince George into a more structured royal life and the protocols governing the representation of the monarch at international state occasions.

What to watch

Prince William will attend the funeral service at Oslo Cathedral on September 9, followed by a private burial at Akershus Fortress. Princess Kate is expected to accompany Prince George to Eton College on the same day. King Charles will remain in Scotland, hosting Prime Minister Andy Burnham at Balmoral.