Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have relocated Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet to a new school in the United Kingdom. This change took place just two days after the children began classes, following concerns raised by their security team regarding the school run.
Reason for School Change
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex decided to withdraw Archie, seven, and Lilibet, five, from their initial school. Concerns emerged about ensuring the children’s safe commute to and from the premises. A spokesperson for the Sussexes informed Newsweek that the decision came after discussions with the family’s security team about the current arrangements.
The parents remain extremely grateful to all the teachers and staff for the love, care, and effort they have shown their family. This decision should not be interpreted as a reflection on the school or the exceptional care received there.
According to HELLO! Magazine, factors like heavy traffic and the distance between the school and the family’s home contributed to the decision. Sources close to the family noted the children enjoyed their initial days at school, meeting classmates and their parents. However, logistical challenges during the daily journey proved difficult for their small private security team. One incident reportedly made it challenging for security vehicles to remain together, raising safety concerns.
In response, Archie and Lilibet attended a taster session at another school in the area. Harry was seen helping Lilibet settle into her reception class. The Sussexes joined the parents’ WhatsApp groups, HELLO! reported.
Security Concerns for the Sussex Family
The sudden school shift highlights ongoing security issues for the Sussexes. The couple returned to England in late August after living in California for nearly six years. Security has been a significant unresolved matter for Harry in the UK.
When Harry and Meghan stepped down as working royals in 2020, their automatic police protection was removed. This led Harry to challenge the decision in court, arguing his family remained at risk when visiting the UK. Despite losing his Court of Appeal challenge in May 2025, questions about Harry’s security status persist.
The issue is crucial as Harry previously expressed discomfort bringing his family to the UK without adequate protection. Meghan Markle also received her first government-backed security review since stepping down from royal duties. The Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC) is assessing the couple’s circumstances. Harry is undergoing a separate risk assessment. The reviews will consider the family’s daily routines, including commuting logistics for Archie and Lilibet.
Impact of Their Return to the UK
Harry and Meghan’s return announced in August included bringing Archie and Lilibet back with them after spending most of their lives in the US. Their move garnered considerable interest in how the family will balance privacy with living realities in Britain. Though they have remained reticent about relocating reasons, privacy regarding their home and children’s school remains a priority.
Their return also renewed focus on their relationship with the royal family and their status in the UK. Earlier, King Charles III’s office confirmed Harry and Meghan remain non-working royals, and their HRH styles are on hold. Operational security questions have been forwarded to relevant police authorities.
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