Parents at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s kids’ school complain of ‘overkill’ warnings about taking photos of students amid royal security concerns
Parents at Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet‘s new school received formal privacy warnings shortly after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle enrolled their children, having withdrawn them from a previous school due to logistical concerns. Some parents have expressed dissatisfaction with the new guidance.
The notice informed families that photographing other people’s children is prohibited. This reminder also applies to parents from neighboring schools whose sports teams compete with the Sussex children’s new school.
One parent branded the notices “complete overkill”
A parent told The Mirror that the timing of the notices likely relates to Harry and Meghan enrolling their children at the school.
The parent called the measure “complete overkill,” arguing, “could you imagine the uproar from other parents if someone was discovered purposely taking pictures of children that weren’t theirs. I hope this isn’t a sign of things to come because it’s totally unnecessary.”
Another parent noted that two 4x4s were “rushing” down the road near the school as the couple arrived with security. They added, “Everyone is very down to earth and normal here. We all help each other and help out whenever we can with school events.”
“We would hope all new parents want to get involved and immerse themselves in school life and the wider community.”
Why Archie and Lilibet left their first school after two days
Archie and Lilibet were withdrawn from their original school two days after starting, following concerns raised by the family’s security team regarding the daily commute. A spokesperson stated that the couple remains grateful to the original school’s staff.
According to HELLO! magazine, heavy traffic and the distance from the family’s temporary home were contributing factors.
The spokesperson added, “It’s a real shame, because they absolutely adored the school, the kids and their parents. It was perfect for them in every way and the children really enjoyed their time there.”
Harry’s long-running fight over official protection
The couple lost government-funded security after stepping back as senior royals in 2020. Since then, Harry has frequently raised security concerns for his family.
Since their return to the U.K., the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures has informed Harry that his case was discussed at a recent meeting. Officials agreed he should receive a full review now that he resides in the country and his children attend a British school.
Critics question the family’s approach
Royal commentator Kinsey Schofield told Page Six that the couple’s decision to change schools was unsurprising, stating, “None of these logistical problems are a surprise. When I was speaking to people locally about the original school, one of the first things I was warned about was the horrific traffic.”
Schofield added, “This is another example of Harry and Meghan appearing to choose the more complicated route and then discovering that the complications are difficult to manage.”