Princess Beatrice has assumed Prince Philip’s former role, as speculation over her royal future continues to intensify.
The Chartered College of Teaching announced that the Princess of York, 36, will become its new patron.
In a new statement, the organisation said: "We are pleased to announce Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice as our Patron.
"HRH Princess Beatrice has shown her support for education and for young people through her work as Ambassador and Patron of many organisations, and particularly as Trustee and Founder of Big Change.
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|Princess Beatrice inherits Prince Philip’s role as royal future speculation intensifies.
"Our Royal Charter, granted in 1849, is a powerful symbol of the professionalism and dedication of teachers.
"The late Duke of Edinburgh was our Patron until his death in 2021 and was an active supporter of the Chartered College of Teaching, and of the teaching profession. Royal patronage gives a clear indication of the fundamental role teachers play in society and for children and young people.
"Together with HRH Princess Beatrice, we look forward to championing the teaching profession with renewed purpose and visibility."
Princess Beatrice also made a statement, saying: “To me, the power that teachers have on shaping lives and transforming futures makes it one of the most commendable and highly regarded professions.
PA | Prince Philip photographed with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Edward in 2014.
"I’m a passionate believer in the vital role that teachers play every day and know firsthand the impact that great teaching can leave on a child and their family.
"It’s a real honour to take up the role as Patron of the Chartered College of Teaching, a role previously held by my grandfather.
"I’m really excited to support the College’s mission to champion excellence in teaching and to celebrate the impact of this incredible profession.”
Dame Alison Peacock, CEO of the Chartered College of Teaching, said: “I am delighted to welcome HRH Princess Beatrice as our Patron and as an advocate for the teaching profession.
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|Princess Beatrice and Prince Philip pictured in 2012.
"I am extremely grateful for her recognition of the important work that the Chartered College of Teaching does to empower the profession, and look forward to her involvement with us.”
The fact that Princess Beatrice was chosen to inherit a role held by Prince Philip over other working members of the Royal Family was significant.
The young mother of two clearly possessed attributes that were appealing to the Chartered College of Teaching.
It comes amid reports that King Charles and Prince William are looking to promote Beatrice and her younger sister, Princess Eugenie, as working royals.
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|Princess Beatrice and Prince Philip pictured in 2003.
The two sisters hold HRH titles but do not carry out duties on behalf of the Royal Family.
The working monarchy is currently ageing rapidly, with the Gloucesters in their late 70s and early 80s and the Duke of Kent at 89.
Meanwhile, Princess Anne, the hardest-working royal, is 74, and the King and Queen are 76 and 78, respectively. The Edinburghs are also both in their early 60s.
Princess Kate and Prince William are in their early 40s, but are also raising a young family with three children under 12.