Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s children, Prince Archie (7) and Princess Lilibet (5), are set to begin private schooling in the Cotswolds, England, following their family’s recent relocation from California. Parents in the area received letters from local schools reminding them of privacy rules ahead of the Sussex children’s enrollment, according to reports.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrived in the UK last week for an extended stay, with plans to settle in the affluent countryside region. While the specific school has not been publicly named, royal commentator Kinsey Schofield told Page Six that parents received letters after Harry and Meghan approached multiple schools for their children’s education.
The letters, obtained by Page Six, emphasized the need to maintain a ‘safe, happy, and private environment’ for all students. They cautioned parents and guardians against photographing or filming other children without permission or sharing details about pupils and their families on social media. The message noted that some families may attract ‘a greater level of public or media interest’, though it did not single out the Sussex children by name.
A spokesperson for the Sussexes has not publicly commented on the letters or the school selection process. The family’s relocation marks their first extended stay in the UK since stepping back as senior working royals in early 2020.
Background: The Sussexes’ UK Return and Education Plans
Harry and Meghan’s move to the Cotswolds follows years of intermittent visits to the UK, including brief stays in 2022 and 2023. Their children, who were born in the US, have previously attended private schools in California. The choice of a UK private school aligns with the family’s stated preference for an education that balances academic rigor with privacy protections.
The Cotswolds, known for its picturesque villages and high-net-worth residents, offers proximity to London while providing a more secluded setting. While the specific school remains undisclosed, the area is home to several prestigious independent institutions, including Cheltenham College and St Edward’s School, Oxford, though neither has been linked to the Sussexes’ inquiries.
Privacy Concerns and School Policies
The letters reflect broader concerns about balancing media scrutiny with child welfare in high-profile families. Schools in the UK, particularly those catering to affluent or notable families, often implement strict privacy protocols to shield students from unwanted attention. These may include restrictions on social media posts, designated drop-off zones, and media liaison teams to manage interactions with press.
Royal experts have noted that the Sussexes’ situation presents unique challenges, given their global media presence and the children’s royal lineage. Unlike other high-profile families, their status as former senior royals—who remain under the Crown’s jurisdiction—adds layers of protocol and public interest.
Next Steps for the Sussex Children
While enrollment details remain undisclosed, the family’s legal team and representatives are expected to finalize arrangements in the coming weeks. The children’s transition to a new school system, coupled with their parents’ high-profile status, will likely draw continued media attention despite the schools’ privacy measures.