For pupils and staff at Harrogate Ladiesβ College (Duchy College from September), Tuesday 26 May will long be remembered as a day unlike any other, as the school welcomed His Majesty King Charles III for a private visit during a pivotal period in the schoolβs history.
Arriving to a reception from governors and senior staff, the King was guided through the College by three prefects, who gave him an insight into school life. It was His Majestyβs first visit to Harrogate Ladiesβ College and the first time the school has welcomed a reigning monarch.
The King remarked upon the beauty of the schoolβs setting, admitting he had not quite realised its remarkable location within the Duchy area of Harrogate. Throughout the afternoon, conversations reflected his natural curiosity and longstanding interest in education and community.
In the library, the King discussed balancing the demands of A Levels alongside leadership responsibilities and music commitments with three prefects, discussing how they manage the pressures of study while embracing wider school life.
The College Chapel Choir performed With A Voice of Singing and the Sevenfold Amen, while Year 6 pupils from Highfield Prep School delivered a confident performance from their recent production. Speaking afterwards, he asked how long they had rehearsed, praising both their confidence and composure.
Among those performing was Head of Chapel Choir, Tilly Reid, who described the experience as unforgettable.
βIt was very special to meet and perform for the King today,β she said.
βHe was very interested in our school and said it was βan absolute delightβ to hear us sing.
βIt was a moment I will never forget.β
The King was particularly interested to hear about the Collegeβs transition to co-education. In June 2025, Harrogate Ladiesβ College announced plans to become fully co-educational for pupils aged 2β18 from September 2026, alongside a new identity as Duchy College.
For Principal, Joanna Fox, the significance of the visit extended far beyond ceremony.
βIt was an absolute honour to welcome the King,β she said.
βHis visit comes at a hugely important time in the schoolβs history, making the occasion especially meaningful for everyone in our community.
βThe staff and pupils present today will remember this day for the rest of their lives and feel immensely proud to have been part of such a memorable event.β
Before departing, the King presented the school with a native British oak tree, one of 80 being gifted ahead of His Majestyβs 80th birthday in 2028.
