The Danish royal family has moved 16-year-old Prince Christian, the heir to the throne, to a new school on the outskirts of Copenhagen following reports that students at the former boarding school Herlufsholm were subjected to physical and sexual abuse. This decision comes amid ongoing public scrutiny and extensive media coverage across Denmark and beyond.
At his new school, Christian will study within a gym program designed to prioritize core values such as curiosity, along with cooperation and mutual respect among students. The setting emphasizes a balanced approach to education, combining academic study with collaborative learning and personal growth.
The royal family described the transition in a formal statement, noting that the New School was founded in 1873 by Frederiksen as a response to evolving educational philosophies. The institution is recognized as one of Denmark’s early adopters of co-education, bringing boys and girls together in a shared classroom environment and positioning itself as an innovative hub for modern teaching methods. The family stressed that the move aims to provide a supportive framework for Christian as he navigates his ongoing education and personal development.
As part of his new academic plan, Christian will have the opportunity to select a tailored program and choose subjects that align with his interests and goals. This personalized approach reflects a broader trend in Danish education toward flexible learning pathways that accommodate individual strengths while maintaining rigorous academic standards.
Christian’s sister, Isabella, is also changing schools this year in light of the Herlufsholm situation. The family has chosen a school located in the heart of Copenhagen, a center that has quickly risen in prestige and public regard, earning a place among the top five institutions in the region this year. The changes underscore the importance placed on finding environments that support well-being, safety, and academic excellence for both siblings as they advance through adolescence.
Initial discussions surrounding the siblings’ moves highlighted ongoing concerns about school safety and the welfare of students in Denmark’s private education sector. While the royal household has framed the changes as part of a careful, long-term plan for Christian and Isabella, observers note that the decisions also reflect a broader national conversation about safeguarding, accountability, and the quality of schooling offered to families across the country [Royal Court Statement].
The transition to new educational settings is being managed with emphasis on discretion and continuity. Officials have indicated that both Prince Christian and Princess Isabella will continue to receive a standard of support typical for members of the royal family, while their everyday schooling remains focused on building resilience, critical thinking, and civic responsibility. The public is encouraged to follow official channels for updates, recognizing the sensitivity surrounding youth education and the responsibilities of guardianship in high-profile families.
In the wider context, Denmark’s approach to reform in education has included a push toward inclusive practices and safer campus environments. The Herlufsholm incident has become a touchstone in discussions about safeguarding, prompting institutions to re-evaluate governance, student welfare programs, and transparent reporting mechanisms. As Christian and Isabella adjust to their new communities, observers expect their experiences to mirror ongoing national dialogues about well-being, mentorship, and the role schools play in shaping capable, compassionate citizens. The royal family has noted that the children’s education remains a private matter of family management, while also contributing to public conversations about how best to protect and nurture young people in all schools [Royal Court Statement].