As Prince George celebrates his 12th birthday today, his parents, Prince William and Princess Catherine, continue to prioritize his privacy despite his place as second in line to the throne. Unlike the way King Charles and Prince William were raised, George’s upbringing has been largely shielded from public scrutiny, with a focus on providing him with the most nurturing and supportive environment possible.

Growing up in a close-knit family, George benefits from the love and care of his parents, as well as the guidance of trusted mentors who will help shape his future. But one relationship that will undoubtedly play a central role in his development is the bond between George and his father, Prince William.

Former royal correspondent Jenny Bond highlighted the importance of George’s upbringing, noting that he has been raised in a loving environment with solid role models like his parents and maternal grandparents. “George has been given the best possible start in life,” Bond said, noting that the young prince has a “huge and unique destiny ahead.”

Royal author Duncan Larkham also emphasized the special connection between George and his father. “George is clearly in awe of William,” Larkham said. “When they’ve appeared together, George has often worn similar outfits to his father, almost like a mini version of him. It’s quite touching.”

Prince William is known for being hands-on in his parenting, and it’s clear that he’s keen to protect George from the pressures of royal life while ensuring he grows up with a solid foundation. Additionally, George shares a close relationship with his grandfather, King Charles, who has also taken on a mentoring role. In 2023, King Charles chose George to be one of his pages of honor during his coronation, signifying the deep bond between them.

Robert Jobson, author of Our King: Charles III, The Man and the Monarch, explained that George’s relationship with the King is currently that of a grandfather and grandson. However, as George gets older, King Charles will gradually take on more of a mentoring role, much like Queen Elizabeth II did with William.

William himself often recounts the valuable lessons he learned from his grandmother, particularly their Sunday tea sessions at Windsor Castle, where Queen Elizabeth would teach him about the affairs of state. These formative moments will likely shape how William guides George through his future responsibilities.

Though George is still relatively less visible than his father was at the same age, he’s begun to attend high-profile events like Wimbledon, the King’s Birthday Parade, and the VE Day commemorations. Prince William and Princess Catherine remain selective about which events their children attend, but as second in line to the throne, George’s royal duties will soon become an integral part of his life. With King Charles observing from a distance, the monarch will undoubtedly continue to offer guidance and support as George prepares for his future role.