For pupils and staff at Harrogate Ladies’ 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 school’s 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 Majesty’s first visit to Harrogate Ladies’ College and the first time the school has welcomed a reigning monarch.
The King remarked upon the beauty of the school’s 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.
“It was very special to meet and perform for the King today,” she said.
“He was very interested in our school and said it was ‘an absolute delight’ to hear us sing.
“It was a moment I will never forget.”
The King was particularly interested to hear about the College’s transition to co-education. In June 2025, Harrogate Ladies’ College announced plans to become fully co-educational for pupils aged 2–18 from September 2026, alongside a new identity as Duchy College.
For Principal, Joanna Fox, the significance of the visit extended far beyond ceremony.
“It was an absolute honour to welcome the King,” she said.
“His visit comes at a hugely important time in the school’s history, making the occasion especially meaningful for everyone in our community.
“The 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.”
Before departing, the King presented the school with a native British oak tree, one of 80 being gifted ahead of His Majesty’s 80th birthday in 2028.
