Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have moved their children to a different school just two days after the start of the new autumn term. The decision followed reported concerns over security logistics and the practicalities of the daily commute.
Prince Archie, aged seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, had only just begun their studies when the change was made. The family relocated from California back to the United Kingdom in August 2026 and are understood to be residing in the Cotswolds.
The move was reportedly necessitated by the difficulty of keeping security convoys together during the school run. A spokesperson for the couple confirmed the decision was based on “practicalities” and the logistics of the journey, rather than any specific new threat.
Security risk assessment underway
The family’s return to the UK has triggered a formal review of their protection. The Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec) is currently conducting a new risk assessment to determine the family’s security needs as full-time UK residents.
This assessment is the first of its kind for the Duchess of Sussex since 2020. Under current arrangements, the committee evaluates security requirements on a case-by-case basis, though the family’s permanent return to Britain has prompted a wider reassessment of the resources required.
The names and specific locations of both the former and current schools have been withheld to maintain the children’s privacy.
According to The Guardian, the Home Office review follows legal discussions regarding the Duke’s previous challenges over the level of protection afforded to his family while in the UK.
While the family’s residence in the Cotswolds remains private, the logistical challenges of managing high-profile security in a rural setting with varying traffic conditions are believed to have been the primary factor in the school change. It is not yet confirmed whether the family intends to remain in the Cotswolds long-term or if the move is part of a broader transition back to life in the UK.