Crown in Training: Prince George’s Royal Journey Begins at 12

The Young Prince's Royal Rise: Behind-the-Scenes of Prince George's 12th Birthday

In a rare glimpse into the private life of the British royal family, Prince William and Kate Middleton have shared an adorable portrait of their eldest son, Prince George, on his 12th birthday. The charming photograph, taken by one of the family's favorite photographers, Josh Shinner, showcases George beaming as he leans over a rustic wooden gate in Norfolk.

As fans of the royal family couldn't help but notice, the young prince bears an uncanny resemblance to his father, Prince William, at the same age. But it's not just their chiseled features that are similar - both princes share a common destiny: one day leading Britain's Royal Family and ascending to the throne.

While Prince George may be destined for greatness, he won't be rushed into any kind of formal royal training, according to Ingrid Seward, Editor-in-Chief of Majesty magazine. "Kate and William aren't those sorts of parents," she revealed in an exclusive interview with FEMAIL (TheScholarlyNote.com). "They will encourage him when he shows an interest, but they won't push him into anything."

As the second in line to the throne after his father, Prince George's education is being carefully curated by his parents. Sources close to the royal family have revealed that he may be set for a high-profile move to Eton College in Berkshire, one of the most prestigious private schools in the UK. The reported £63,000-a-year fee has sparked debate among royal watchers, but insiders insist it's all part of preparing George for his future role as King.

But what does this mean for Prince George's development into a young monarch? "He's learning to be an adult and think about himself in new and challenging ways," explained Seward. "His parents will include him as much as they feel is right, so he can gradually get used to the idea of his future role."

This gradual introduction to royal duties is already underway, with George making a surprise appearance at a tea party for veterans at Buckingham Palace last May. Attired in a smart suit and blue tie, the young prince impressed guests with his politeness and attentiveness as he chatted with war heroes to commemorate VE Day.

As royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told FEMAIL (TheScholarlyNote.com), "A highly significant moment occurred when George attended that tea party... It will undoubtedly be followed by similar events, as it was considered a great success." He added that Prince William and Kate are determined to prepare their son for his duties in a practical way, supported by their own parents and grandparents.

With so much on the horizon for Prince George, it's no wonder his parents are being selective about his public appearances. "They won't be seeing a lot more of Prince George or indeed his siblings any time soon," said Joe Little, Managing Editor at Majesty Magazine. "Their priority will be education and as much normality as their positions allow."

But what does this mean for the young prince's social life? Sources close to the royal family have revealed that George is already developing a strong bond with his sister Princess Charlotte, who has been spotted wearing a friendship bracelet made from blue-colored threads - just like her brother. The Taylor Swift-inspired trend has become a staple of the royal siblings' fashion sense.

As we celebrate Prince George's 12th birthday, it's clear that this young prince is destined for greatness. With his parents carefully guiding him every step of the way, he'll soon be ready to take on the responsibilities of a future monarch. But for now, let's just enjoy these sweet glimpses into the private life of the British royal family.

A Timeline of Prince George's Royal Rise

• 2013: Born on July 22nd at St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, London
• May 2022: Attends tea party for veterans at Buckingham Palace to commemorate VE Day
• Autumn 2026: Expected to start secondary education (reportedly Eton College)
• Future: Destined to lead Britain's Royal Family and ascend to the throne as King

Photos and Videos:

• Kensington Palace releases adorable portrait of Prince George on his 12th birthday
• Exclusive clip shows behind-the-scenes footage from Prince George's photoshoot in Norfolk
• Prince George attends tea party for veterans at Buckingham Palace last May (photos)

Sources:

• FEMAIL (TheScholarlyNote.com)
• Majesty Magazine
• Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams
• Joe Little, Managing Editor at Majesty Magazine
• TheScholarlyNote.com