Prince William and Kate Middleton share new statement after Natural History Museum appearance
The Prince and Princess of Wales met with teachers and school children on Thursday
Prince William and Kate Middleton officially resumed royal duties this week following their summer break, and have shared a new statement after a visit to one of London’s most iconic institutions, the Natural History Museum.
On Thursday (September 4), Prince William and Kate, Princess of Wales, stepped out for their first public engagement of the autumn at the Natural History Museum.
The visit celebrated the museum’s newly transformed gardens and its flagship biodiversity and outdoor learning programmes.
Prince William and Kate Middleton visit Natural History Museum visit
Braving a sudden downpour, the royal couple joined school children from both Kendar Primary in Lewisham and Co-op Academy Manchester and teachers to learn about the gardens and programmes.
It was part of the museum’s National Education Nature Park programme. This initiative supports schools in creating green spaces and learning opportunities that connect young people with nature and climate science.
However, Kate, ever the hands-on royal, was quick to ensure the children were comfortable amid the rain.
“We had been waiting for the session to start, and the children were very excited. Princess Kate was in amongst us and said, ‘Let them go in,’ and ‘Let’s take them inside, it’s pouring,'” shared Beverley Brown, an assistant headteacher from Kender Primary School, according to HELLO! magazine.
Royal statement
Later that day, the couple shared a message on social media reflecting on the engagement and its impact.
“Mother Nature made a surprise cameo at the @NHM_London!” They began. “Even with the rain, it was great seeing how the gardens and National Education Nature Park programme are helping young people to connect to nature, combining outdoor learning with wellbeing activities.
Mother Nature made a surprise cameo!
“The National Education Park Programme is inspiring young people to connect with nature, and to create more green spaces and habitats that benefit both wildlife and their community.”
A short video shared on Instagram included interviews with students, who enthusiastically described their love for nature, as well as clips of the prince and princess smiling under umbrellas and speaking to the children and staff.
During the visit, Princess Kate also debuted a lighter “blonde” hairstyle that drew headlines.
Kate’s role at the Natural History Museum
The visit was especially meaningful for the Princess of Wales, who has served as royal patron of the Natural History Museum for several years.
During a 2021 visit, she was introduced to the early concept of the Urban Nature Project. This has since evolved into the garden and education initiatives showcased this week.
The museum’s gardens now serve as a “living laboratory,” welcoming visitors and offering hands-on experiences with urban biodiversity.
The prince and princess are now back to duties after enjoying a summer break with their kids.
William and Kate traditionally take August off from public duties to spend the summer holidays with their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. The trio have likely now returned to Lambrook School.
The new academic year is especially significant for Prince George, who begins his final year at Lambrook before transitioning to secondary school in 2026.
Royal watchers speculate that he may follow in his father’s footsteps by enrolling at Eton College, located not far from the family’s Windsor home.
Read more: Kate Middleton’s Together at Christmas concert set to air again this year as statement issued
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