GEORGE LEARNS HIS DESTINY

William and Kate are determined to protect their son as he begins to understand his future

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The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have done their best to raise their children as normally as possible, despite the palatial roofs over their heads.

And that’s especially the case for their eldest, Prince George, who has spent his childhood kicking a soccer ball and playing in the mud without the pressure of his future looming before him.

It’s believed the eight-year-old has been told “as little as possible” about the fact that he will one day become king – until very recently.

“Kate and William wanted him to have a happy, easygoing childhood,” says a source. “They felt he had plenty of time to feel the weight of the monarchy on his shoulders.”

Woman’s Day understands that with William stepping into more “king-like” roles in support of Prince Charles and the Queen, including a leading role at Trooping the Colour this week, the Cambridges have decided the time has come for them to brief George on his future.

“George already knew he was privileged. He might go to school with some well-off families but none of them were getting box seats at the football and rugby finals,” says a source. “As soon as he started asking questions, and knowing that he’s about to see his dad dressed up in full regalia front and centre of a national celebration, Kate and Wills knew it was time to tell him he’s a future king.”

A PIVOTAL MOMENT