Star pupils! Princess Charlotte beams as she poses with her big brother Prince George for an adorable photo at Kensington Palace before her first day at Thomas’s Battersea

• Princess Charlotte arrived at Thomas’s Battersea in South London with mother, father and big brother
• Charlotte celebrated her fourth birthday on May 2 and joins the school where George started in 2017
• William and Kate’s fees for Charlotte are 2% lower than George’s because she is a second child at school 
• Charlotte will be known as Charlotte Cambridge to staff and schoolmates and she is in a class of 21

Prince William and Kate have released a touching photo of their daughter Princess Charlotte, arm in arm with her big brother, before she headed off for her first day at school.

The adorable picture was taken on the steps of Kensington Palace before Duke and Duchess delivered their happy-looking four-year-old to the £18,915-a-year private institution along with George, six.

The proud parents’ photo – which shows both of the children beaming with excitement – is similar to countless others posted online by Britain’s mothers and fathers this ‘back-to-school’ week. Unlike a number of pictures released by the family, this wasn’t taken by the Duchess herself.

In a short statement, a spokesman for the royal couple said: ‘The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are very pleased to share a photograph of Prince George and Princess Charlotte at Kensington Palace this morning. 

‘The image was taken shortly before Their Royal Highnesses left for Thomas’s Battersea.’

Charlotte smiled, waved and shyly hid behind the Duchess of Cambridge, who was holding her bag, as she arrived at the school in South London, where it is taught that kindness is as important as academic success. 

Head of the lower school Helen Haslem was waiting to greet her new pupil and shook hands with the princess, who celebrated her fourth birthday on May 2 and will be known as Charlotte Cambridge to staff and schoolmates. 

Princess Charlotte, with her brother Prince George, at Kensington Palace this morning before starting her first day at school

Princess Charlotte, with by her father, the Duke of Cambridge, and mother, the Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George, arriving for her first day of school at Thomas’s Battersea in London this morning

Charlotte waves as she arrives for her first day at school. She will be known as Charlotte Cambridge to staff and schoolmates

Charlotte arrived with her family by car as other parents dropped off their children at the school in South London

Helen Haslem, head of the lower school, greets Princess Charlotte as she arrives for her first day of school this morning

The four-year-old follows in the footsteps of big brother George, who was also greeted by Miss Haslem two years ago

She was driven to school in South London by her father in the family’s Land Rover Discovery, arriving just after 8.15am. Her arrival was in contrast to George’s first day at the £6,000-a-term school two years ago.

George arrived without his mother, because she was at home suffering from acute morning sickness. She was pregnant at the time with Prince Louis, her third child. Instead, William had to take him by himself.

Charlotte – whose fees are 2 per cent lower than George’s because she is a second child at the school – arrived wearing what staff call a ‘transitional’ uniform of a blue pinafore with a white summer blouse, and black shoes and white socks. 

It was a low-key event, recorded by a small group of journalists, in contrast to the crowds of photographers who turned out for Prince William’s first day at school when he was dropped off by Diana, Princess of Wales. 

Princess Charlotte of Cambridge is welcomed by Miss Haslem, head of the lower school (right) on her arrival this morning

Charlotte hides behind her mother the Duchess of Cambridge as she arrives for her first day at school this morning

Head of the lower school Helen Haslem was waiting to greet her new pupil and shook hands with the princess today

Princess Charlotte holds the hand of her mother, the Duchess of Cambridge, as she arrives for her first day of school

The steps of Kensington Palace are a favourite spot for family photos. They previously released this photo of a young Prince George (left), taken in November 2014, and another of Princess Charlotte (centre), taken by Kate in 2018. Prince George was also pictured with his father on the same spot before he started school in September 2017 (right)

Charlotte, whose mother wore a £215 red-patterned Michael Kors dress, was driven up to a side entrance while other children accompanied by their parents went in through the front.

Head of lower school wearing £250 LK Bennett dress greets Charlotte

Helen Haslem greets the Cambridges this morning

Princess Charlotte was today greeted by Helen Haslem, the head of lower school at the £19,000-a-year private Thomas’s Battersea in South London.

She opted for a £250 navy polka dot pleated midi dress by designer LK Bennett.

This time two years ago she turned heads in an elegant £320 pink dress by the same designer when she greeted Prince George for his first day.

The Mail on Sunday revealed she called in a stylist and hairdresser to make her over for her big day in 2017. 

In a message on school’s website, Miss Haslem says: ‘The emphasis in the Lower School is on enjoyment and this is embedded in our broad curriculum and our most important school rule of ‘Be Kind’.

‘Children quickly settle into the routines and expectations of the school where the atmosphere is noticeably happy, yet stimulating in nature.

‘Our foremost aim is to ensure that every child feels safe, happy and confident at school. We help to create an environment in which children are eager to learn and to take an active part in their own learning.’

As the four of them walked from the car, Charlotte – normally much more confident and outgoing than her brother – clung to her mother’s hand and held back.

The family was greeted by the head of the lower school, Helen Haslem, who shook hands with both George and Charlotte.

As they walked – Charlotte flicking her ponytail and looking at the small group of media and Palace press officers – William told Ms Haslem: ‘First day – very excited.’ 

Kate said: ‘How are you? Did you have a nice summer?’

Charlotte’s mother carried her satchel which had a keyring in the shape of a unicorn’s head attached to it. 

William and Kate took Charlotte to her classroom – she is in a class of 21, one of three reception classes in her year – to meet her teacher and settle her in.

The new royal pupil will be known at school as Charlotte Cambridge, just as her six-year-old brother is George Cambridge.

There is also another friendly face in the form of her cousin Maud, the daughter of Prince Michael of Kent’s son Lord Freddie Windsor, who is in the same year as George. 

Charlotte, who has been at Willcocks Nursery, Kensington, since January 2018, will start at Thomas’s by doing half days. 

Emotional royal fans took to social media to share their joy, with many noting how pleased Kate and William looked. 

One said: ‘Love how proud William and Catherine are looking at her!’ 

Others gushed over the confident young princess, proudly wearing her uniform, as she started her first day.

Sources told MailOnline Charlotte was ‘hugely excited’ about leaving nursery and joining George at the school where he has been ‘extremely happy’.  

Helen Haslem (right), head of the lower school, greets Princess Charlotte as she arrives for her first day of school today

Princess Charlotte waves as she arrives for her first day of school at Thomas’s Battersea in London this morning

Princess Charlotte arrives for her first day of school, with her brother Prince George and her parents Kate and William

Princess Charlotte began her first day at school with a welcome handshake from Miss Haslem outside the school this morning

Her older brother, who is six, started at the school in September 2017 and is said to have settled down well there.

Deep fried squid for lunch

Pupils at Thomas’s Battersea enjoy an impressive menu at lunchtime, including deep fried squid rings, red Thai prawn curry and Linda McCartney’s vegan sausages.

The school operates a three-week menu cycle, repeated once. It offers lighter lunches during the lighter days and more substantial meals when the days turn cold.

Other highlights include pork noodle stir fri, chicken katsu, smoked haddock and butternut squash pilaf. 

They also operate a ‘meat free Friday’, including the likes of cheese and tomato paninis and fish burgers.

The big day is therefore likely to have been a little less daunting for her knowing he is there.

George is said to be ‘excited and proud’ to be showing her around. 

Under the school’s policy, William and Kate’s fees for Charlotte will be nearly 2 per cent lower than George’s because she is a second child at the school.

At the moment, the term fee for the eldest child of the Reception and Year Two-tier is £6,429, while the charge for the second child it is £6,305, according to the school’s website. 

If the Cambridges’ youngest child Prince Louis attended the same school, the fee – as it stands under the current fee levels with effect from September 1, 2019 – for the third child would be £5,790.

Princess Charlotte arrives for her first day of school at Thomas’s Battersea in London, accompanied by her brother George

Charlotte holds her mother’s hand as the Cambridges arrive for her first day of school at Thomas’s Battersea in London today

Charlotte’s mother carried her satchel which had a keyring in the shape of a unicorn’s head attached to it

Emotional royal fans took to social media today to share their joy as Princess Charlotte arrived at Thomas’s Battersea

The school is housed in a Grade II listed building, the former Sir Walter St John’s Grammar School which dates back to 1700. 

Thrifty Kate recycles £215 dress she wore at Harry and Meghan’s rehearsal

The Duchess of Cambridge arrives with her daughter

Many parents might do the school run in a well-loved jumper and pair of laid-back jeans.

But it was a decidedly more formal affair for Kate Middleton, 37, as she accompanied Princess Charlotte , four, on her first day of school today.

The Duchess of Cambridge was the picture of elegance in a £215 red-patterned Michael Kors dress as she arrived at Thomas’s Battersea with her family.

The parent, who recycled the same outfit she wore to Meghan Markle and Princes Harry’s wedding rehearsal, added a belt which cinched her in at the waist.

Trading in her usual designer bag for Charlotte’s school rucksack, the mother-of-three added a pair of navy suede stiletto heels to complete her look and wore her glossy brown locks loose around her shoulders. She kept her makeup minimal to show off her natural beauty and accessorised with a pair of dainty gold hoop earrings.

Meanwhile, Prince William looked equally as smart in a navy blazer, pale blue shirt and pair of brown trousers.  

Thomas’s Battersea, which describes itself as a Christian school, open to children of all faiths, believes in ‘praise as the greatest motivator’.

Parents are told their children will be in an atmosphere which seeks positive relationships between pupils, teachers and parents.

Art, ballet, drama, ICT, French, music and physical education are all taught by specialist teachers from a child’s first day.

Former pupils include Florence Welch, of the band Florence and the Machine. Others are model Cara Delevingne and her sisters, Poppy and Chloe.

In his welcome message on the school website, headmaster Simon O’Malley says: ‘Thomas’s Battersea is a busy, thriving, purposeful school, educating 560 boys and girls between the ages of four and 13.

‘As you would expect of any Thomas’s school, the most important school rule is to ‘Be Kind’. We offer a rich and broad curriculum, with art, ballet, drama, ICT, French, music and PE all taught by specialist teachers from a child’s first day in school.’

He added: ‘We hope that our pupils will leave this school with a strong sense of social responsibility, set on a path to become net contributors to society and to flourish as conscientious and caring citizens of the world.’

William and Kate are familiar figures at the school gate and have thrown themselves into school life, helping out at coffee mornings and cheering George on from the sidelines at sports day.

Royal biographer Penny Junor, who has written an array of biographies on the family, has described George as a ‘protective older brother’ to Charlotte.

Speaking in this week’s Hello magazine, Ms Junor said: ‘Prince George is a very protective and lovely older brother.  

Princess Charlotte and Maud Windsor, who are now at the same school, pictured at Princess Eugenie’s wedding last October

‘I’m sure he’ll look after his little sister and take great pride in showing her the ropes.’

Ballet and rooftop play at Thomas’s Battersea

• Thomas’s London Day Schools is a group of independent, co-educational preparatory schools in Battersea, Clapham, Fulham and Kensington 
• It was founded in 1971 when actress Joanna Thomas, a mother of three, started a kindergarten in a church hall
• Thomas’s Battersea branch opened in October 1990 
• The school has 540 pupils between ages four and 13 
• It occupies a Grade II listed building – which was once a grammar school founded in 1700 – where facilities include a rooftop playground, theatre, ballet room and pottery rooms 
• The most important rule is to be kind, while other core values include courtesy, confidence and humility 
• Former pupils include singer Florence Welch (of Florence & The Machine), model Cara Delevingne and her sisters, Poppy and Chloe
• The school day begins at 8.30am, before reception finishes at 3.20pm – with the older children going home slightly later
• Each class of around 21 pupils has a form teacher and roughly equal numbers of boys and girls 
• Pupils study literacy, numeracy, science, history, geography, religion, French, PSHCE, art, computing, music, swimming, ballet, PE and games – and many of the lessons are taught by specialist teachers
• Most lessons last between 35 and 40 minutes, and the children also have assemblies in the morning

Mumsnet founder Justine Roberts added of their busy summer: ‘It seems Kate and William are doing their best to keep a balance between acknowledging the children’s roles as future public figures and showing them a private life.’

The school day begins at 8.30am, before reception finishes at 3.20pm – with the older children going home slightly later. Each class has a form teacher and roughly equal numbers of boys and girls.

American TV presenter Lara Spencer had to apologise after comments she made about George taking ballet lessons sparked a social media backlash.

During a segment on ABC’s Good Morning America, she claimed William said his son ‘absolutely loves ballet’. 

She added: ‘I have news for you, Prince William: We’ll see how long that lasts. I mean, he might.’

The couple have been touched by the sensitive way school staff handled his arrival, particularly with the other children and parents.

Earlier this year, the headmaster at Thomas’s, Mr O’Malley, said in a statement: ‘We are delighted that the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have decided that Princess Charlotte will join her elder brother, Prince George, at Thomas’s Battersea. 

‘We greatly look forward to welcoming her and all of our new pupils to the school in September.’ 

The school is part of a group of independent, co-educational preparatory schools located in Clapham, Fulham and Kensington. 

How grinning Princess Charlotte’s first day at big school compares to her shy older brother Prince George’s 

Princess Charlotte has charmed the nation with her cheeky antics, even daring to stick her tongue out at cameras. 

But on her first day of school this morning she was on her best behaviour.

Arriving at Thomas’s Battersea, where her brother George is two years above, four-year-old Charlotte clung to her mother’s hand and was sure to keep her manners in check. 

Charlotte (left today) smiled as she confidently took the hand of her teacher, head of Thomas’s lower schoo, Helen Haslem, who greeted George on his first day two years ago (right)

Charlotte clung to her mother’s hand, while brother George held his father’s as they arrived at Thomas’s Battersea for the Princess’s first day at school 

 Charlotte (left) appeared confident as she flicked her hair walking into her first day of school at Thomas’s Battersea this morning, while her brother George (right) appeared more nervous on his first day two years ago 

Then and now: Charlotte (left) waved to cameras this morning, while her brother George appeared nervous on the same day two years ago (right) 

Cracking her signature smile, and confidently waving to crowds of reporters, she flicked her hair as she strolled over to meet her teacher. 

Her calm and collected demeanour is a world away from how her brother George, who was also by her side this morning, dealt with the same experience two years ago. 

The young prince, now six, appeared anxious as he nervously walked with his father through the school gates of the exclusive London private school. 

He had to make the journey without his mother, who was suffering morning sickness while pregnant with his younger brother Louis.  

The Duchess of Cambridge chuckled as her daughter momentarily hid behind her, while father William beamed and brother George walked with them 

Charlotte was pictured next to her mother Kate, while William held hands with her brother George as they arrived just after 8am on Thursday morning 

Charlotte flicked her hair as she waited to be greeted by head of Thomas’s lower school Helen Haslem

Believed to have been much more comfortable at home with father William and mother Kate, George looked unsure as he shook hands with his teacher Helen Haslem.  

In comparison, royal sources said Charlotte was ‘excited’ to begin her schooling today, after turning four in May. 

She looked confident as she shook Mrs Haslem’s hand and gave the cameras a quick glance before she was led through the doors.

The young princess will referred to by her teachers and classmates as ‘Charlotte Cambridge’, similar to George.  

How royal youngsters have posed for the cameras in decades past on their first day at school

The first day at school is a big milestone for any child, let alone a royal youngster arriving in front of the cameras.

Prince George looked smart but nervous in 2017 when he started at Thomas’s Battersea, where Princess Charlotte will begin her full-time education on Thursday.

The Duchess of Cambridge, then pregnant with Prince Louis, missed George’s big day because she was too ill, and was at home suffering from severe morning sickness.

Prince George looked smart but nervous in 2017 when he started at Thomas’s Battersea, arriving with father Prince William 

Four-year-old George held the Duke of Cambridge’s hand as he was met by the head of the lower school Helen Haslem.

William later said his son’s first day went well and joked that he was pleased another parent had problems with their child rather than him.

The week after George started, a woman was arrested on suspicion of trying to break into the private school. The 40-year-old was later given a caution for causing a nuisance on school property.

As for nursery school, George went to Westacre Montessori School near the Cambridges’ Norfolk home, Anmer Hall.

A few weeks in and William told a fellow parent on a visit to Milton Keynes: ‘I just dropped George off and he didn’t want to go.’

But future king George, who is going into Year 2, is now said to be happy and settled.

He played a sheep in his first nativity play, and has reportedly been given the nickname PG by his friends.

Kate photographed two-year-old Charlotte when she started at Willcocks Nursery School, near Kensington Palace, in 2018

Kate spoke about doing the daily school run soon after George started.

In a speech at a Place2Be forum on how schools can tackle mental health problems, she said: ‘As a mother, just getting used to leaving my own child at the school gates, it is clear to me that it takes a whole community to help raise a child.’

George and Charlotte were both pictured on their first day at nursery, with keen photographer Kate capturing the moments.

George went to Westacre Montessori School near the Cambridges’ Norfolk home, Anmer Hall.

Maud Windsor joined her distant cousin Prince George at Thomas’s in 2017. Maud is the eldest daughter of Lord Frederick and Lady Sophie of Windsor, who are also parents to Isabella

He was shown near a large, colourful mural, wearing a winter coat with a small rucksack on his back.

Kate also photographed two-year-old Charlotte when she started at Willcocks Nursery School, near Kensington Palace, in January 2018.

The princess was seen sitting on steps in the grounds of the London palace and also standing as she held on to a rail.

William arrived on his first day at Wetherby School in 1987 in a smart grey school cap, double-breasted coat, grey shirt and red tie, and waved to onlookers, while accompanied by his mother the Princess of Wales

Dressed in a red coat and matching Mary Jane shoes with a bow in her hair, the youngster was ready for winter in a scarf and for her day with a rucksack on her back.

William’s first experience of learning away from home was at Mrs Mynor’s Nursery School in west London which he joined aged three.

From the age of four, he went to Wetherby School, also in west London.

He arrived on his first day in 1987 in a smart grey school cap, double-breasted coat, grey shirt and red tie, and waved to onlookers, while accompanied by his mother the Princess of Wales.

When his younger brother Harry started at Wetherby in 1989, William was there to guide him – just like George with Charlotte 

When his younger brother Prince Harry started at Wetherby in 1989, William was there to guide him – just like George with Charlotte.

Five-year-old Harry was pictured gazing up at seven-year-old William as they posed on the steps in their matching uniform of caps, blazers, shorts and burgundy t-bar shoes.

William then spent five years at Ludgrove School in Berkshire.

William spent five years at Ludgrove School in Berkshire. The royal youngster became a boarder there in 1990 when he was eight, and shook hands as he was greeted by his headmasters at the photocall marking his arrival

The royal youngster became a boarder there in 1990 when he was eight, and shook hands as he was greeted by his headmasters at the photocall marking his arrival.

It was while he was at Ludgrove that was rushed to hospital suffering from a depressed fracture after being hit on the side of the head with a golf club by a friend in 1991.

He needed surgery for a fractured skull, received 24 stitches and now affectionately calls the resulting mark his ‘Harry Potter scar’.

It was while he was at Ludgrove that William rushed to hospital suffering from a depressed fracture after being hit on the side of the head with a golf club by a friend in 1991

William went on to board at Eton College, as did Harry, for five years.

His first day began with a photocall with the separated Prince and Princess of Wales joining him in a show of solidarity, with Harry also taking part.

Thirteen-year-old William smiled broadly as he was greeted by scores of photographers.

The Prince and Princess of Wales with William, Harry and house master Andrew Gailey on William’s first day at Eton in 1995

A three-tier scaffolding stage was erected opposite Manor House where William was to live as a boarder, to allow the press a one-off view of the new Etonian.

By then William had a reputation for being shy, and would hide behind his fringe when greeted by the cameras.

But he posed for pictures in his traditional black Eton tailcoat, waistcoat and white shirt when his lessons got under way.

Like the others boys, he had a private room where a maid would make his bed, tidy up and take care of his laundry.

The media captures William´s first day at Eton in 1995. His first day began with a photocall with the separated Prince and Princess of Wales joining him in a show of solidarity, with Harry also taking part

The school was to later act as a sanctuary for William when his parents were in the middle of an acrimonious divorce, and provided stability in the difficult years that followed his mother’s death.

The Prince of Wales started as a day boy at Hill House School in Knightsbridge in 1956.

The following year, at the age of eight, he went as a boarder to Cheam School at Headley, near Newbury, Berkshire.

He had a difficult time at school as a teenager.

William on his way to his first lessons at Eton in 1995. The school was to later act as a sanctuary for William when his parents were in the middle of an acrimonious divorce, and provided stability in the difficult years that followed his mother’s death

He was sent to Gordonstoun School in Moray, Scotland, following in the footsteps of the Duke of Edinburgh, but was picked on and described his days there as ‘a prison sentence’.

Charles did admit that the school instilled him with self-discipline and a sense of responsibility.

He spent part of the school year in 1966 as an exchange student at Geelong Church of England Grammar School in Melbourne, Australia – the first member of the British royal family to attend an overseas Commonwealth school.

Gordonstoun is also where Zara and Peter Phillips, the Duke of York and the Earl of Wessex were taught.

Prince Charles, with the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh meeting his headmaster on his first day at Cheam School in 1957

The Queen was educated at home with her sister Princess Margaret.

After her father George VI succeeded to the throne in 1936 and she became the heir, she started to study constitutional history and law.

She received tuition from her father, as well as sessions with Henry Marten, the vice-provost of Eton.

She was also instructed in religion by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

She studied art and music, and is fluent in French after learning the language from a number of French and Belgian governesses.

Charles, with Philip and Captain Iain Tennant, chairman of the Gordonstoun Board of Governors in 1962

The Duchess of Cambridge’s prep school was St Andrew’s in Pangbourne, Berkshire, where she returned for a visit in 2012 shortly before the announcement that she was pregnant.

She joined the public school in 1986 when her family returned to the UK after spending two and a half years in Jordan where she attended a nursery school.

She stayed until she was 13 and was predominantly a day girl but in her later years also boarded for part of the week.

Princess Elizabeth (right) and Princess Margaret after they broadcast on Children´s Hour from Buckingham Palace during the Second World War

As a 14-year-old, Kate withdrew from independent girls’ school Downe House in Cold Ash, Berkshire, after just two terms when she was reportedly bullied.

She started afresh at Marlborough College, a co-educational boarding school in Wiltshire, where she went on to blossom, captaining the hockey team and doing well in her exams.

The duchess, patron of school-based counselling charity Place2Be, has attended child mental health conferences to learn about issues such as the transition years between primary and secondary education, and has taken part in an anti-bullying workshop organised by Scotland’s anti-bullying service RespectMe during a visit to Dundee. 

‘Confident’ Princess Charlotte went from ‘quietly excited’ to feeling ‘comfortable with attention’ as she arrived for her first day of school, body language expert reveals – and even showed off her signature wave! 

A body language expert has revealed how Princess Charlotte put on a ‘confident and excited’ display today, making use of her advanced social skills as she arrived for her first day of school. 

Charlotte, 4, was pictured arriving at £18,915-a-year St Thomas’s Battersea school in South London this morning, accompanied by Kate Middleton, 37, Prince William, 37, and Prince George, 6, who was beginning his third year at the private institution. 

The young royal was seen hiding behind Kate as she arrived, a move which expert Judi James has described as ‘playful rather than reluctant’, before playing with her hair in an act of ‘pride’ – even taking initiative to step around her mother to greet head of the lower school Helen Haslem. 

Charlotte’s self assured display stood in contrast to brother George’s first day at school in 2017, when the little boy was seen looking more reserved, with Judi describing it as a move to ‘deflect too much unnecessary attention’.

Quietly excited 

Charlotte, 4, was pictured arriving at £18,915-a-year St Thomas’s Battersea school in South London this morning, accompanied by Kate Middleton, 37, Prince William, 37, and Prince George, 6, who was beginning his third year at the private institution. The young royal was seen hiding behind Kate, left, as she arrived, a move which expert Judi James has described as ‘playful rather than reluctant’

Speaking to Femail, Judi said of the royal family’s arrival at the school today: ‘The mirrored anxious-looking smiles worn by both Kate and William suggested mutual tension as they led both Charlotte and George into school, suggested they might have been expecting some last-minute emotions.

‘But despite some shyness rituals from Charlotte and some more stoic, grown-up-looking body language from her big brother, both went into the school quite happily, although with what looked like two very different approaches.’

Describing George’s appearance, she continued: ‘George looked determined and resolute, but he was also happy to hold his dad’s hand and appears to prefer to be attached in this way. 

‘He tended to look ahead quietly rather than be distracted by his surroundings and there was absolutely no showboating or playing to suggest he wanted to steal the attention away from Charlotte.’

And speaking about Charlotte, Judi explained: ‘Charlotte did appear superficially to be the shyer one of the two but her act of pulling behind Kate as they walked across the yard did include quite a playful-looking energy, suggesting she was excited rather than reluctant.’

Signature wave 

Judi addressed Charlotte’s natural confidence in public, adding of her appearance: ‘One hand appeared raised to perform her signature wave, and overall she looked comfortable with all the attention.’

Speaking about Charlotte’s natural confidence in public, Judi said: ‘One hand appeared raised to perform her signature wave, and overall she looked comfortable with all the attention. 

‘George, on the other hand, does tend to take a more reserved and business-like approach, appearing to ignore the cameras and possibly deflect too much unnecessary attention.’ 

Socially confident

Judi noted Charlotte’s confident greeting with head of the lower school Helen Haslem, adding: ‘Charlotte has always appeared to be the sibling with the sociability traits, waving happily to the crowds from a very young age and that tendency was on display in the way that she instigated stepping around Kate to greet the teacher with keenness, suggesting she is confident and happy with new faces.’

Speaking about the young royal greeting head of the lower school Helen Haslem, Judi explained: ‘Charlotte has always appeared to be the sibling with the sociability traits, waving happily to the crowds from a very young age.

‘That tendency was on display in the way that she instigated stepping around Kate to greet the teacher with keenness, suggesting she is confident and happy with new faces.’

Happy in the spotlight 

Judi added: ‘Charlotte’s sociability and confidence were also visible in the way she always seems to pick out the cameras, looking openly intrigued as she stared them out with interest’

Explaining Charlotte’s playful display with her ponytail, Judi said: ‘Like most girls with a new ponytail to start school, Charlotte was flicking it about with what looked like pride rather than as a self-comfort gesture to overcome nerves.’

Addressing the young princess’ natural social confidence, Judi said: ‘Charlotte’s sociability and confidence were also visible in the way she always seems to pick out the cameras, looking openly intrigued as she stared them out with interest.’

George versus Charlotte’s first day 

Charlotte’s self assured display, right, today, stood in contrast to brother George’s first day at school in 2017, left, when the little boy was seen looking more reserved, with Judi describing it as a move to ‘deflect too much unnecessary attention’

Charlotte’s self assured display stood in contrast to brother George’s first day at school in 2017, when the little boy was seen looking more reserved.

Judi said: ‘The different ‘first day of school’ responses from George and younger sister Charlotte is probably reflected best in the body language of their parents as they perform their little greeting rituals with their teacher.

‘William stands to one side, in sight of his son, to encourage and support from the close sidelines in a way that suggests he thinks George might be in need of some back-up. George’s splayed feet suggest an amount of resolve but his facial expression and the way he keeps his chin down and his hand in the clasp up suggests some natural wariness and social caution.

‘Kate stands behind Charlotte though, rather than within her sight, and the way Charlotte chose to step around and to the front to greet the teacher ahead of her mother suggests excitement and keenness, plus some strong levels of social confidence. Her chin is high as she shakes hands and her smile and eye contact suggests she’s curious and enjoying herself. She’s even on tip-toes, which looks like an other signal of excitement and keenness.’

Charlotte was driven to school in South London by her father in the family’s Land Rover Discovery, arriving just after 8.15am

Charlotte was driven to school in South London by her father in the family’s Land Rover Discovery, arriving just after 8.15am. Her arrival was in contrast to George’s first day at the £6,000-a-term school two years ago. 

George arrived without his mother, because she was at home suffering from acute morning sickness. She was pregnant at the time with Prince Louis, her third child. Instead, William had to take him by himself.

Charlotte – whose fees are 2 per cent lower than George’s because she is a second child at the school – arrived wearing what staff call a ‘transitional’ uniform of a blue pinafore with a white summer blouse, and black shoes and white socks.

It was a low-key event, recorded by a small group of journalists, in contrast to the crowds of photographers who turned out for Prince William’s first day at school when he was dropped off by Diana, Princess of Wales.

Charlotte, whose mother wore a £215 red-patterned Michael Kors dress, was driven up to a side entrance while other children accompanied by their parents went in through the front.

William and Kate took Charlotte to her classroom – she is in a class of 21, one of three reception classes in her year – to meet her teacher and settle her in.

The new royal pupil will be known at school as Charlotte Cambridge, just as her six-year-old brother is George Cambridge.

 

 

Teacher Helen Haslem ‘hits the right note’ in a £250 LK Bennett dress to look ‘approachable yet professional’ for Princess Charlotte’s first day – after donning the same brand to welcome Prince George

Princess Charlotte’s new headmistress Helen Haslem ‘looks approachable yet professional – without over doing it,’ according to an expert stylist.

The head of the lower school at Thomas’s Battersea opted for a £250 navy polka dot pleated midi dress by designer LK Bennett as she greeted the young royal and her brother, Prince George, Six.

Speaking exclusively to FEMAIL, stylist Rochelle White told how her outfit is ‘perfect for back to school’ and welcoming Prince George and Princess Charlotte through the gates.

‘She has the right mix of trendy, fashionable and stylish for her role and to meet the royals,’ she explained. ‘I feel that she made a conscious decision to make sure that her outfit was suitable for today.’

‘She looks approachable yet professional without over doing it – she has got the balance right.’ 

Head of Lower School Helen Haslem (far right) opted for a £250 navy polka dot pleated midi dress by designer LK Bennett as she greeted Princess Charlotte on her first day at Thomas’s Battersea

According to stylist Rochelle White, the teacher has ‘the right mix of trendy, fashionable and stylish for her role and to meet the royals’

Helen Haslem wore a £250 LK Bennett ‘Amana’ dress in dusky pink when she welcomed Prince George back in September 2017

From her sleeked back blonde bun to natural makeup, the teacher looked impeccable as she welcomed the youngster  to Thomas’s by crouching down to her level for a warm handshake.

‘Her hair has been perfectly styled to draw attention away from her face and onto what she is wearing,’ explained Rochelle. 

The designer retailer describes the ‘Avery’ outfit online as the ‘perfect every day dress’ – and Helen Haslem made sure she turned heads in the trendy ensemble. 

Made from a lightweight fabric, it features sheer long sleeves, pleating to the neckline and waistband and falls to a midi length in stylish pleats. 

Helen Haslem and Kate Middleton upped the fashion stakes as they engaged in conversation at the school gates today

Princess Charlotte was accompanied by mother Kate Middleton. father Prince William and older brother, Prince George, six, on her first day of school

She paired the outfit with beige pumps with small block heel – and accessorised with a dainty bracelet on her right wrist.

‘Helen’s shoes match her outfit and have a nice little heel that complements her look,’ explained Rochelle. ‘They are practical enough for her job, but work really well with her choice of outfit.’

All eyes were similarly on the lower school’s headmistress back in September 2017 – on Prince George’s first day at the £18,000-a-year institution. 

In yet another stylish appearance, Helen similarly wore designer LK Bennett but opted for a more summery look in a pale pink £250 dress instead.  

Helen Haslem (pictured) also opted for LK Bennett when she welcomed Prince George, six, to the school back in September 2017

In September 2017, Princess Charlotte’s new teacher Helen Haslem wore a pink L.K. Bennett dress that bore a striking resemblance to the Duchess of Cambridge’s Alexander McQueen wool dress (pictured)

The rose-coloured Amana dress drew comparisons to the sorts of outfits Kate likes to wear, including an Alexander McQueen frock she donned on the Royal tour of Australia in 2014.

She also chose £129 ‘Simone’ scalloped pump shoes from another of the duchess’s go-to high street brands, Hobbs, to go with her dress. 

Comparing today’s outfit choice with her 2017 choice, Rochelle added: ‘I feel that this outfit is very Autumn-focused and suits this time of year. It is just as stylish as her look the year before last, but it is more on trend.’ 

‘George, you’ll have to show her the way!’ Lip-reading experts reveal Kate Middleton’s kind words to daughter Princess Charlotte on her first day at big school 

The Duchess of Cambridge told Princess Charlotte that her brother Prince George would ‘show her the way’ when she arrived for her first day at school today.

Charlotte, four, looked a little hesitant at first as she was led into the grounds of Thomas’s Battersea in South London, while holding the hand of her mother, Kate.

But lip-reader Tina Lannin told MailOnline that the Duchess reassured her daughter with some kind words as they went into the £19,000-a-year independent school.

The Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte, the Duke of Cambridge and Prince George are welcomed by Helen Haslem, head of the lower school at Thomas’s Battersea, in London today

The Duke of Cambridge walked beside them, holding George’s hand after driving his family to school this morning in their Land Rover Discovery.

The family of four headed to a side entrance upon their arrival and Ms Lannin from 121 Captions said Kate said the phrases ‘they stopped them’ and ‘exciting, isn’t it’.

Charlotte grasped Kate’s hand with both of hers and walked close to her as she approached Helen Haslem, head of the lower school, who was waiting to greet them.

The Duchess smiled and asked: ‘How are you? Did you have a nice summer?’, and Miss Haslem bent down to shake George’s hand and then Charlotte’s.

Princess Charlotte arrives for her first day of school at Thomas’s Battersea in London today

Miss Haslem said: ‘Are we ready to go? How exciting.’ William beamed and said: ‘First day – she’s very excited.’ Kate added: ‘George, you’ll have to show her the way.’

Charlotte is following in the footsteps of six-year-old brother George, who has been at the school for two years.

She wore the school’s transitional uniform which spans both summer and winter – a dark dress and cardigan with a blouse, white socks and shoes.

She had her hair in a practical ponytail, which she kept adjusting, fixed with a bow. Her mother carried her satchel which had a unicorn keyring attached to it.

Kate’s summer hair makeover! Duchess swaps her signature blow out for a practical ‘working mum’ style for Charlotte’s first day of school, as an expert claims she’s taking a leaf out of Meghan’s ‘relaxed’ look book

A stylist has revealed how Kate has embraced the ‘working mum’ look, as little Charlotte was pictured arriving for her first day at school today. 

Kate, 37, sported a shorter, shiny blow dry as she took Charlotte, 4, to the £18,915-a-year Thomas’s Battersea school in South London.

Wearing a £215 Michael Kors dress, Kate was joined by William and their eldest son George, 6, who is starting his third year at the school. 

And following their appearance, stylist James Johnson revealed how Kate’s hair has transitioned from a more ‘polished’ summer look, to a more practical style with a ’90s on-trend flick’, and explained how Kate appeared to be taking a leaf out of Meghan’s more ‘relaxed’ look book.

The ‘working mum look’ for Charlotte’s first day at school today: Stylist James Johnson revealed how Kate’s hair has transitioned from a more ‘polished’ summer look, to a more practical style with a ’90s on-trend flick’, and explained how Kate appeared to be taking a leaf out of Meghan’s more ‘relaxed’ look book

Speaking about Kate’s hair transition, stylist James Johnson told Femail: ‘We’ve seen Kate showcase a longer hairstyle over the summer, both in July at the Hampton Court Flower Palace Garden Show and in August at the sailing regatta where her hair looked very preened.

‘And now we’re all back to school, the working mum side of her is out! She’s gone for the chop, to the long bob, very on trend and adaptable for any time of the year. 

‘A long bob is often a great choice for busy people, not too long gets in the way, and still short enough to be tied up if needed.’

Revealing that she may have taken a leaf out of her stylish sister-in-law’s books, he added: ‘We’ve seen Kate wear very polished looks before, much different from Megan’s relaxed waves. 

Stylist James Johnson revealed how Kate’s hair has transitioned from a more ‘polished’ summer look, seen visiting The Back To Nature Garden at Hampton Court Palace in July wearing longer straight locks

In August Kate was seen wearing a more preened style as she attended The Kings Cup Sailing Race – a more high maintenance look than now

‘It’s nice to see Kate has opted for a more relaxed look similar to Megan with an undone blow dry, still polished but with her own effortless stamp with it not being ‘too done’ or too curly.’

Speaking about the new look, he said: ‘To re create this use a large barrel tong if unable to blow dry. For the blow dry experts at home, use larger rollers just to create that chic flick. The 90s flick is back.

‘Big blow dries were the fashion years ago before waves came in, and now we’re reverting back to flicky ends, almost looks like it’s been worn in a day or two type of hair style.

Kate, 37, sported a shorter, shiny blow dry as she took Charlotte, 4, to the £18,915-a-year Thomas’s Battersea school in South London today. Wearing a £215 Michael Kors dress, Kate was joined by William and their eldest son George, 6, who is starting his third year at the school

Helen Haslem, head of the lower school greets Princess Charlotte as she arrives for her first day at school, with her brother Prince George and her parents the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, at Thomas’s Battersea in London

‘As a busy mum this is totally iconic in terms of being presentable and wearable without being OTT on the school playground. 

‘No doubt having some much deserved time off over the holidays, the longer hair was easier and her hair was given a break. Now being back to work and with the children back to school, it’s nice to see the new haircut, with a healthy cut and bounce to it, ready to be the working busy mum she is.’

Charlotte smiled, waved and shyly hid behind the Duchess of Cambridge who was holding her bag as she started at Thomas’s Battersea, where it is taught that kindness is as important as academic success.

George is said to be ‘excited and proud’ to be showing her around. Under the school’s policy, William and Kate’s fees for Charlotte will be nearly 2 per cent lower than George’s because she is a second child at the school. 

Meghan, seen with Harry and Archie in May, goes for the more relaxed look when it comes to her hair – something Kate seems to have adopted

Charlotte smiled, waved and shyly hid behind the Duchess of Cambridge who was holding her bag as she started at Thomas’s Battersea in South London, where it is taught that kindness is as important as academic success.

Charlotte’s the Queen’s mini me! Royal fans go wild over the VERY striking similarities between the four-year-old princess and her great-grandmother as she arrives for her first day at school

Stunned royal fans have taken to social media to compare Princess Charlotte to the Queen as she arrived for her first day of school today. 

The adorable Princess clutched her mother’s hand as her parents dropped her off for her first day at Thomas’s Battersea, the £18,915-a-year private institution in south London which big brother Prince George also attends.

Eagle-eyed fans noted how proud the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge looked, before pointing out the striking similarities between Charlotte, four, and her great-grandmother.

One wrote: ‘What a good looking family they are. Charlotte is so like the Queen when she was her age.’ 

Royal fans hailed the photos of Princess Charlotte (left) on her first day, before highlighting the similarities between her and the Queen (pictured right in 1930 when she was around 4 years old, the same age as Charlotte)

Another added: ‘Prince Charlotte arrives for her first day of school. So sweet. Charlotte is a doppelganger of Queen Elizabeth.’

While a third simply said: ‘Charlotte looks just like the Queen!’  

Others gushed over the confident young princess, proudly wearing her uniform, as she started her first day.  

Head of the lower school Helen Haslem was waiting to greet her new pupil and shook hands with the princess, who celebrated her fourth birthday on May 2 and will be known as Charlotte Cambridge to staff and schoolmates. 

Charlotte was driven to school by her father in the family’s Land Rover Discovery, arriving just after 8.15am. 

She arrived just as other parents dropped off their children. 

Sources told MailOnline she was ‘hugely excited’ about leaving nursery and joining George at the school where he has been ‘extremely happy’. 

Charlotte waves as she arrives for her first day at school. She will be known as Charlotte Cambridge to staff and schoolmates

According to fans, Princess Charlotte has a striking resemblance to her great-grandmother, pictured here in 1930, around the same age Charlotte is now

Princess Charlotte was compared to the Queen by royal fans thrilled at her first day of school

Princess Charlotte, with by her father, the Duke of Cambridge, and mother, the Duchess of Cambridge and Prince George, arriving for her first day of school at Thomas’s Battersea in London this morning

Her older brother, who is six, started at the school in September 2017 and is said to have settled down well there.

He is thought to be keen to act as a guide for his little sister. 

Royal fans went into meltdown on social media as they reacted to the touching photos of Charlotte’s first day. 

One wrote: ‘Sobbing at pictured of little Princess Charlotte starting school with her big brother.’

Charlotte arrived with her family by car as other parents dropped off their children at the school in South London

Emotional royal fans took to social media today to share their joy as Princess Charlotte arrived at Thomas’s Battersea

Another said: ‘Four years ago, I got a tweet that said the Duchess of Cambridge had given birth to a girl. 

‘Four years later, that little girl, Charlotte is starting her first day of school. She’s grown up so much. Good luck today, Princess Charlotte. I know you’ll be running the school in no time.’

While a third added: ‘They’re both so big! Seems like yesterday the little princess was born!’ 

Charlotte was also compared to other royals, with one calling her the spitting image of Princess Margaret, as well as the Queen. 

Helen Haslem, head of the lower school, greets Princess Charlotte as she arrives for her first day of school this morning

Some fans were just glad to see the heartwarming photos, following a tumultuous week of political headlines. 

One wrote: ‘So sweet! Finally something other than maddening and disheartening politics on my TL.’

Thomas’s Battersea, which describes itself as a Christian school, open to children of all faiths, believes in ‘praise as the greatest motivator’.

Parents are told their children will be in an atmosphere which seeks positive relationships between pupils, teachers and parents.

Art, ballet, drama, ICT, French, music and physical education are all taught by specialist teachers from a child’s first day.

William and Kate are familiar figures at the school gate and have thrown themselves into school life, helping out at coffee mornings and cheering George on from the sidelines at sports day. 

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