It's the end of an era for Prince George. As the young royal celebrates his 13th birthday, he's also preparing to leave home for one of the biggest milestones of his life-starting at the prestigious Eton College, where his father, Prince William, once studied.
Prince George is officially a teenager-and with that birthday comes a major royal turning point.
The eldest child of Prince William and Princess Catherine celebrated his 13th birthday on July 22, just weeks after finishing his final term at Lambrook School. But the birthday cake isn't the only thing making headlines. In just a few weeks, the future king will pack his bags and begin boarding life at Eton College.
For the first time, George will spend much of the school year away from his family, living on campus at one of Britain's most famous-and exclusive-schools.
It's a tradition deeply rooted in the royal family.
Prince William attended Eton before him, and now George is set to follow in his father's footsteps as he prepares for the next chapter of his education. The move also marks another significant step in preparing the young prince for the enormous responsibilities that one day await him as king.
George officially completed his time at Lambrook School on July 4, giving him a summer to enjoy with his parents and siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, before school begins in early September.
Royal watchers are also eagerly waiting for another annual tradition.
Last year, Kensington Palace released a relaxed birthday portrait of George leaning casually against a wooden gate, accompanied by a heartwarming family video that delighted fans around the world. Many expect a brand-new birthday portrait to be released to mark his entry into the teenage years.
Over the past year, George has appeared increasingly comfortable during public royal events, including Trooping the Colour and other official engagements, prompting many to comment on how quickly he's growing into his future role.
Although he'll still return home during school holidays, Eton will become George's primary home throughout the school term until he graduates at 18.
It's a bittersweet milestone for Prince William and Princess Catherine, who have worked hard to give their children as normal a childhood as possible despite the extraordinary expectations surrounding the monarchy.
As Prince George enters his teenage years, the world will undoubtedly continue watching every step of his journey-from school life and future royal appearances to the day he eventually takes his place as Britain's future king.
