The Royal Library / Royal Profiles
Catherine, Princess of Wales
Explore Catherine’s family life and the work that has shaped her role as Princess of Wales.
Early Life
Catherine Elizabeth Middleton was born on January 9, 1982, the eldest of three children of Michael and Carole Middleton. She spent part of her early childhood in Jordan before the family returned to Berkshire.
St Andrews and Meeting Prince William
Catherine enrolled at the University of St Andrews in 2001 to study History of Art. She met Prince William there, and both graduated in 2005.
Marriage and Family
William and Catherine married at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011. Their children are Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
Becoming Princess of Wales
Following Queen Elizabeth II’s death and Charles’s accession in 2022, King Charles announced William as Prince of Wales. Catherine consequently became Princess of Wales.
A Long-Term Focus on Early Childhood
Early childhood has become the most distinctive area of Catherine’s public work. In 2021, she launched The Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, building on several years of research and engagement in the field.
What Is Shaping Us?
In 2023, the Centre launched Shaping Us, a long-term campaign focused on the importance of early development and the role that experiences and relationships in the earliest years can play later in life.
Mental Health and Families
Catherine’s work has also included children’s mental health, family wellbeing and initiatives encouraging more open discussion of mental health.
Together at Christmas
Since 2021, Catherine has spearheaded the annual Together at Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey, recognizing people who contribute to their communities.
What Does the Princess of Wales Do?
Catherine is a senior working member of the Royal Family. She supports the King through official engagements and carries out her own program of public work, with early childhood and family wellbeing forming a central part of her portfolio.
Will Catherine Become Queen?
If William eventually becomes King while Catherine is his wife, Catherine would ordinarily become queen consort. She is not herself in the line of succession.