Harry and Meghan Move Archie and Lilibet to Different UK School Just Two Days Into Term

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have transferred Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet to another British school only two days after the new term began, following discussions about the practical security challenges facing the family.

The sudden change comes as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex adjust to life back in the United Kingdom with Archie, 7, and Lilibet, 5, after spending six years in the United States.

Security team prompted the change

A spokesperson for Harry and Meghan confirmed on Sept. 14 that the decision was reached after consultation with the family’s protection team.

“The decision for the children to move schools was taken following a discussion with the family’s security team about the practicalities of their current arrangements,” the spokesperson said.

The Sussexes emphasized that the move should not be viewed as criticism of the original school or the treatment their children received there.

“The parents remain extremely grateful to all the teachers and staff for the love, care and effort they have shown their family,” the statement continued.

“This decision should in no way be interpreted as a reflection on the school or the exceptional care the children have received there.”

The identities of both schools have not been publicly disclosed, helping preserve the children’s privacy and safety.

Sussexes begin a new chapter in Britain

Harry and Meghan returned to England with their children six years after stepping back from senior royal duties and relocating to the United States in 2020.

Their stay in Britain is not expected to be permanent. The family reportedly plans to remain in the country for an extended period while retaining its home in Montecito, California.

Archie and Lilibet’s school change represents an early adjustment during that transition, highlighting the challenges involved in balancing an ordinary family routine with the Sussexes’ unusual security requirements.

Royal status remains unchanged

The move comes shortly after King Charles III clarified that Harry and Meghan’s position within the monarchy would remain unchanged.

In a letter obtained by the BBC on Sept. 7, the King confirmed there would be “no change” to the couple’s status as non-working royals. They will continue to live as “private citizens” rather than resume official duties on behalf of the Crown.

The clarification followed renewed attention surrounding the couple’s return and speculation about whether their move might lead to a different royal role.

Harry previously said a family return felt impossible

Only a year before returning to Britain, Harry said that bringing Meghan and their children back to the UK did not feel realistic because of his security concerns.

“I can’t see a world where I would be bringing my wife and kids back to the U.K. at this point,” he told the BBC in May 2025. “And the things that they’re going to miss is well, everything. I love my country. I always have, despite what some people in that country have done.”

Harry made the remarks after losing an appeal related to the British government’s decision over his security arrangements.

During the same interview, the prince also expressed a desire to repair his strained relationship with the Royal Family, including his brother, Prince William.

“I would love reconciliation with my family,” Harry said. “I will always. There’s no point in continuing to fight anymore. I don’t know how much time my father has. He won’t speak to me because of this security stuff, but it would be nice to reconcile.”

Harry and Meghan are now navigating a markedly different reality from the one the prince described at the time. Their return has brought the family closer to Britain, but the children’s abrupt school change shows that the security concerns shaping their decisions have not disappeared.