Princess Kate praises Southport schoolchildren for their strength and kindness

The Princess of Wales took time to meet pupils still reeling from last year’s tragic knife attack that claimed the lives of three young girls, during a moving visit on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 to Farnborough Road Infant and Junior School in Southport.

Speaking lovingly to the children, Princess Kate said, “Well I am very impressed with all of you, all the hard work you’ve done. What a fantastic thing to learn how to raise money to help other people. Fantastic, so keep up your hard work and thank you.”

Kate and Prince William met with school staff, spoke to educators about how pupils are coping, and later spent time with the families affected by the attack.

Their first stop was Farnborough Road Infant and Junior School, where seven year old Elsie was a student. 

The royal couple were warmly welcomed by 430 children, staff, and dignitaries, including Elsie’s parents, Jenni and David. 

They were greeted by Peter Oliver, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Merseyside, June Burns, Mayor of Sefton, and Marion Atkinson, leader of Sefton Council.

Headteachers Jennie Sephton and Adrian Antell introduced William and Kate to members of the school council before the royals met privately with Elsie’s parents in the headteacher’s office. 

Elsie’s father David, who earlier this year ran the London Marathon alongside Alice’s father, Sergio Aguiar, in memory of their daughters, received personal support from the royal couple, who also donated to their fundraising efforts.