Princess of Wales visits London school to spotlight children’s mental health
Princess Kate’s latest appearance is shining a light on an issue close to home.
The Princess of Wales has continued her long-running focus on children’s wellbeing, visiting a south London school to highlight the importance of early mental health support during Children’s Mental Health Week.
Princess Kate, often described as a champion for young people, travelled to Castle Hill Academy in Croydon on February 12 to see how specialist support is being embedded into everyday school life.
The visit formed part of her ongoing work with Place2Be, a children’s mental health charity she has supported for more than a decade.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Place2Be launched Children’s Mental Health Week in 2015 to raise awareness about the emotional challenges facing young people.
Since becoming patron in 2013, the Princess has consistently advocated for early intervention and nurturing environments that help children develop resilience and confidence.
At Castle Hill Academy, the charity works alongside educators to integrate wellbeing strategies into classrooms through its Whole School Approach — equipping children with practical tools to manage emotions and build positive relationships.
The Princess began her visit in the school’s early years outdoor learning area, designed to encourage sensory exploration, creativity and emotional regulation. The space reflects Place2Be’s therapeutic principles and aims to foster safe, supportive play environments.
Princess Kate spent time speaking with parents, teachers and mental health practitioners about the impact of these programs, hearing firsthand how creative play and trusted relationships can strengthen a child’s ability to express themselves, People shared.
Inside the school’s art studio, she joined pupils taking part in an activity encouraging them to create “belonging maps,” helping children identify the people and places that make them feel secure.
Following the visit, the Princess shared a personal reflection online.
“This year’s Place2Be Children’s Mental Health Week is about the importance of belonging. It can be easy to overlook the importance of the things that matter most: love, care and time spent together.
“Belonging and connection is so important, and is a fundamental part of early childhood development. As Patron of Place2Be, I am incredibly proud of the work they do to support families and communities to nurture children and young people.”
The visit aligns with Kate’s broader mission to elevate early childhood development through the Royal Foundation’s Centre for Early Childhood.
That work expanded last year with the release of the nationwide Shaping Us Framework, outlining key social and emotional skills that help children navigate relationships, communication and self-regulation.
