Introducing Queen Kate

The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, is getting ready for prime time

- Paula Chin, Alison Gaylin & Rachel Rosenblit

If it was a test, Kate Middleton passed with flying colors. Joining Queen Elizabeth II for their very first solo outing together in mid-March, Kate appeared happy, relaxed and solicitous as the pair braved a chilly day to tour a new wing at King’s College in London — and made such a positive impression, royal watchers are still talking about it. “The queen has so much admiration for Kate,” says an insider. “She sees her as intelligent, warm and professional. She doesn’t crack under pressure, and she’s loved by the public. Really, she ticks all the boxes.” No doubt there will be more outings to come. The college tour was one of many events, both private and public, designed to prepare the Duchess of Cambridge, 36, for her next big role: royal consort, a.k.a. Queen Kate. Though Prince William’s father, Prince Charles, 70, is set to take over as king once the queen retires, 37-year-old William will be crowned upon Charles’ retirement. At that point, Kate’s title also will change — and Queen Elizabeth is determined to make sure her granddaughter-in-law is ready. “Kate’s been taking on new responsibilities little by little over the last few years, so it won’t be a shock when the time comes,” royal expert Rebecca Long tells Us. “William and Kate are the favorite royals to take the crown in many generations, so the people of the U.K. are very excited about it. PRIVATE TRAINING