Prince George’s prep school, Thomas’s School, is making headlines with its recent announcement to offer 100 free places at its new senior school opening next year. The school, known for its prestigious reputation, aims to showcase that private schools can be a force for good by providing opportunities for talented children regardless of their background.
Prince George, the eldest son of Prince William and Kate Middleton, attended Thomas’s School in Battersea for five years, starting in 2017. The school, part of the Thomas’s Schools group, is one of four prep schools operated by the family-run organization. Princess Charlotte, George’s younger sister, also followed in his footsteps by attending Thomas’s School two years later. However, both siblings left the school when the royal family relocated to Windsor in 2022.
Thomas’s Battersea charges £8,209 per term for the eldest child in a family aged between four and seven, with fees increasing based on age and decreasing for additional children from the same family. Despite the hefty price tag, the school has gained a reputation for its high-quality education and nurturing environment.
The upcoming senior school in London, set to open in September, will be led by Will le Fleming. He expressed that the 100 free places will be reserved for the most talented children, emphasizing the school’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. These free spots will account for a third of the school’s total intake, providing a significant opportunity for students who may not have had access to such a prestigious education otherwise.
Thomas’s School boasts a beautiful campus featuring a mix of Edwardian and modern buildings, with a stunning courtyard that adds to the school’s charm and appeal. The announcement of the free places initiative has generated buzz within the education community, with many applauding the school’s efforts to make high-quality education more accessible to a wider range of students.
The Impact of Free Places Initiative
The decision to offer 100 free places at the upcoming senior school has the potential to transform the lives of deserving students who may not have had the means to attend a private institution like Thomas’s School. By opening doors to talented individuals regardless of their background, the school is not only providing educational opportunities but also fostering a sense of inclusivity and diversity within its student body.
The free places initiative aligns with Thomas’s Schools’ mission to be a force for good in the educational landscape. By showcasing that private schools can play a role in promoting social mobility and leveling the playing field for students from all walks of life, the school is setting a positive example for other institutions to follow.
Reactions and Responses
The announcement of the free places initiative has garnered mixed reactions from the public and educational community. While many have praised Thomas’s School for its commitment to inclusivity and diversity, some have raised concerns about the potential impact on the school’s finances and resources. However, supporters of the initiative argue that the long-term benefits of providing access to high-quality education for talented students outweigh any short-term challenges.
Parents and students alike have expressed interest in the opportunity to secure one of the 100 free places at the new senior school. The prospect of receiving a top-notch education without the burden of hefty tuition fees has sparked excitement and anticipation among families looking to provide their children with the best educational opportunities available.
Looking Ahead
As Thomas’s School prepares to open its new senior school and welcome a diverse cohort of students through the free places initiative, the institution is poised to make a significant impact on the educational landscape. By prioritizing talent and merit over financial means, the school is setting a precedent for how private schools can contribute to social mobility and provide opportunities for students from all backgrounds to thrive.
In conclusion, Thomas’s School’s decision to offer 100 free places at its new senior school marks a significant step towards promoting inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility in the realm of private education. By opening doors to talented students from all walks of life, the school is not only enriching its own community but also setting a positive example for the broader education sector to follow.
