It's a big month for Prince George. He's just waved goodbye to his prep school, celebrated his 13th birthday this week and his thoughts turn to starting Eton College in September. A huge transition - and one that is allied to his further preparation as future King.
I'm told he hasn't fully faced up to the enormity of his future (how can you when you're just becoming a teenager?) but takes his responsibilities very seriously.
However, this birthday marks a real watershed from child to adult.
Of course, like most teens and tweens he's likely massively self-conscious, right-on and prone to moodiness.
But he loves music, takes guitar lessons and follows in the tradition of his father, grandfather and great-grandfather in taking a keen interest in conservation.
And thanks to the hands-on nature of the Prince and Princess of Wales' parenting, he has been able to live a remarkably 'normal' life.
He's enjoyed watching the football World Cup, supports Aston Villa like his dad (who takes him to matches, pictured above) and participates in national sporting competitions.
'It must be so strange to know that your future is preordained'
Yet he's also heir to the throne and, as such, has slowly been introduced to a life of duty. It must be so strange to know that your future is preordained.
Sure, he will make GCSE then A-level choices at Eton College, which has educated future leaders for centuries. He may go on to study a university degree and, as future Head of the Armed Forces, in all likelihood do some form of military service (he's taking flying lessons and is apparently already a keen pilot).
Yet he knows what the future holds - or at least some of it. His parents have introduced him slowly to 'the Firm'.
George joined his parents at a Buckingham Palace tea party last year honouring World War Two veterans for VE Day (pictured left), and last December went with his father to The Passage homeless shelter to help cook and serve a special Christmas lunch for residents.
Last month, he went on his first official visit with just his mother, to RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, to mark Armed Forces Day and inspect the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.
But for now, it's a special summer.
A post shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales)
A photo posted by on
A holiday of outdoor pursuits, such as sailing, swimming and picnics at Anmer Hall - the family's country retreat in Norfolk - beckons. It's sure to be a summer to remember, as he prepares to step into the more grown-up world of senior school.
I hope he enjoys every second. Happy birthday, George!
This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.
