Princess Kate Joins Kids in Art Class Visit MH Week
Dressed in a brown blazer and trousers paired with a light blue shirt, Princess Kate joined children aged nine to 11 in the school’s art studio. Sitting at a table filled with coloured pencils, glue, and pipe cleaners, she admired the pupils’ creative “belonging maps” — artwork encouraging children to reflect on the people, places, and experiences that help them feel safe and connected.
“Kindness is key — that’s a very important message,” the Princess told one pupil as she pointed to his work. She praised another child’s drawing of a plane, calling him “very talented,” and bonded with a pupil over a shared love of tennis.
Focus on Outdoor Play and Early Years Development
During her visit, Princess Kate also toured the nursery garden attached to the school, highlighting the importance of outdoor spaces for children who may not have access to them at home. Speaking to a young girl in the playground, she revealed that green is her favourite colour, explaining that it reminds her of nature and being outside.
Supporting Mental Health Through Place2Be
Castle Hill Academy works closely with the children’s mental health charity Place2Be, of which the Princess of Wales is patron. The charity founded Children’s Mental Health Week, which this year focuses on the theme “This is My Place”, encouraging young people to explore where they feel they belong.
The Princess met a mother whose son received one-to-one counselling from Place2Be after losing his father at a young age. The woman explained that her son, once withdrawn and quiet, is now confident and recently performed in a school talent show. Princess Kate responded warmly, saying:
“I’m so sorry for your loss, but seeing how he’s thriving shows the incredible work that’s going on.”
Warm Welcome From Pupils and Staff
Throughout the visit, Princess Kate was greeted by rows of cheering children waving colourful handmade flags. She took time to shake hands, read their messages, and compliment their artwork, including a pink flag decorated with a peace symbol.
Before leaving, the Princess was presented with a bouquet of orange and yellow flowers by pupils, including the head girl and head boy. She told them to “keep up the hard work” and said she was “really, really impressed” by the school and its facilities.
Princess Kate’s Message on Belonging
After the visit, the Princess shared a message on Instagram, writing:
“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.”
Her visit highlighted the growing importance of mental health support in schools and reinforced her long-standing commitment to early childhood development, emotional wellbeing, and community connection.
