Princess Charlotte arrived for her first day of school on Thursday — and her big brother,Prince George, showed her the way!
The family arrived at around 8.20 a.m. London time. Initiallyclutching mom Kate’s right handwith both of hers, a shy Charlotte then relaxed her grip as she walked across the schoolyard. A few steps away, big brother George held the hand of their dadPrince William.
Kate, who wore her Michael Kors floral printed dress (which she also wore toMeghan MarkleandPrince Harry’s wedding rehearsal!), and William carried their children’s backpacks as they made their way to the school’s entrance.
Press Association via AP Images
Princess Charlotte and Kate Middleton.Aaron Chown - WPA Pool/Getty Images
Princess Charlotte and Prince George.Press Association via AP Images
The milestone marked a special moment for the family. When George started at the same school two years ago,Kate was unable to join himbecause she was ill with severe morning sickness during her pregnancy withPrince Louis.
As they walked in, William expressed how Charlotte was feeling — turning to teacher Haslem and saying, “First day — very excited.”
Kate then asked her, “How are you? Did you have a nice summer?”
Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte.Aaron Chown - WPA Pool/Getty Images
Princess Charlotte.Aaron Chown - WPA Pool/Getty Images
The royal parents took Charlotte to her classroom to meet her teacher and settle her in. The princess is in a class of 21, one of three reception classes in her year.
Once the early nerves are over, outgoing Charlotte — who has spent the previous 18 months or so at Willcocks Nursery School — will be thrilled to be at Thomas’s. “She can’t wait to be with George at big school,” aninsider previously told PEOPLE. “She is so excited about it all.”
Princess Charlotte and Prince George.Aaron Chown - WPA Pool/Getty Images
Kate Middleton, Princess Charlotte, Prince George and Prince William.Aaron Chown - WPA Pool/Getty Images
Charlotte’s first day followed a summer of fun for the little princess. She joined her parents at a charity sailing event in August, vacationed on the Caribbean island of Mustique and visited with great-grannyQueen Elizabethin Balmoral, Scotland. She also enjoyed a fun day trip with grandparents Carole and Michael Middleton and spent time at the family’s country home, Anmer Hall.
In what is known as her “reception year,” Charlotte will be encouraged to “play and explore; make choices and learn to have a go and persevere; be creative and solve problems; form good relationships; be safe, secure and happy,” according to the school.
Meanwhile, George enters “Year 2,” with a curriculum that includes core subjects such as math, English, science, history and geography. He will also be taught religious studies, French, computing, art/design technology, music, drama, P.E. and ballet.
“The curriculum presented in Year 2 reflects the increased ability of the children, both academically and socially,” Helen Haslem, Head of Lower School, says on the school’s site. “It sees the completion of the basic skills in literacy and numeracy in Key Stage 1. Individual strengths and talents begin to emerge, which you will undoubtedly begin to see.”
source: people.com
