Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, has quietly become one of the Royal Family’s most dedicated working members. As King Charles III navigates a slimmed-down monarchy, his youngest brother has stepped forward with renewed purpose. The 61-year-old royal now shoulders a responsibility once held by their late father, Prince Philip, carrying forward a legacy that has transformed millions of young lives.
A Royal Rising to the Occasion
In recent weeks, Prince Edward has maintained a demanding schedule of international engagements. Just days ago, he travelled to Monaco alongside his wife, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, for a prestigious gala dinner at the Yacht Club de Monaco. The visit wasn’t merely ceremonial. As Chairman of the Board of Trustees of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation, Edward attended the event to promote youth development programmes that operate across 130 countries. During their Monaco stay, the couple met with Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene, strengthening diplomatic ties between the United Kingdom and the Principality.
The Monaco engagement followed Edward’s seven-day tour of Canada in July, where he carried out military commemorations and participated in Canada Day festivities. He also visited Japan in September with Sophie, meeting Crown Prince Akishino and members of Japan’s royal family. These international tours demonstrate how Edward has become indispensable to Britain’s soft diplomatic efforts, particularly as the working royal roster has thinned considerably.
Royal expert Jennie Bond recently told OK! Magazine that Edward and Sophie have become “increasingly important to the future of the monarchy”. With Prince Harry and Prince Andrew no longer performing official duties, the Edinburgh couple has filled a crucial gap. Bond suggested that Prince William, the heir to the throne, will be “grateful” to have his uncle and aunt’s support when he eventually becomes king.
The Duke of Edinburgh Title: A Meaningful Inheritance
King Charles bestowed the Duke of Edinburgh title upon his younger brother on Edward’s 59th birthday in March 2023. The decision fulfilled a long-held expectation. When Edward married Sophie Rhys-Jones in 1999, Buckingham Palace announced that the couple would “in due course” receive the dukedom. The title carries immense sentimental weight, having been held by Prince Philip for over 70 years until his death in April 2021.
Unlike hereditary peerages, Edward holds the title as a life peerage. When he passes, it won’t automatically transfer to his son, James, Earl of Wessex. This arrangement gives future monarchs flexibility in deciding how to use this historically significant title. Edward’s former title, Earl of Wessex, has now passed to his 17-year-old son.
The conferral of the dukedom came with serious responsibilities. Edward became patron of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in the UK and internationally, succeeding his father. In accepting the role, he acknowledged the “particular honour and quite a responsibility” of sustaining his father’s greatest legacy. For Edward, this wasn’t an entirely new challenge. He has held deep connections to the Award for decades, having earned his own Gold Award in 1986.
Championing Youth Development Through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award represents one of Britain’s most successful youth development programmes. Founded by Prince Philip in 1956, it encourages young people aged 14 to 24 to develop skills, resilience and self-belief through volunteering, physical activities and expeditions. Edward has sometimes remarked that he has “DofE in his DNA,” having served as a trustee since 1988.
Recent statistics reveal the programme’s extraordinary reach. In the 2024-25 academic year, more than 342,000 young people across the UK started their Duke of Edinburgh’s Award journey. Overall, a record 572,802 young people were working towards an Award during that period, the highest figure in the charity’s nearly 70-year history. Participants contributed an astonishing 5.2 million hours of volunteering, valued at approximately £33 million.
The programme has made significant strides in widening access. The proportion of participants with additional needs has risen from 4.8% in 2021-22 to 8.2% in 2024-25. The charity distributed more than £1.4 million in grant funding to support organisations and young people facing financial barriers. Across the UK, 30.8% of 14-year-olds started their Bronze Award in 2024-25.
Edward’s commitment extends beyond ceremonial appearances. He regularly visits schools, community centres and youth organisations to meet Award participants. In February 2025, he travelled to India to promote the International Award. These engagements aren’t performative. Edward personally presents Gold Awards at Buckingham Palace, speaking with young people about their achievements and challenges.
A Modern Royal Marriage
Edward and Sophie’s partnership has become a model of effective royal teamwork. Sophie, who turned 60 in January, has increasingly been described as the Royal Family’s “secret weapon”. Her father, 94-year-old Chris Rhys-Jones, reportedly feels delighted that his daughter is taking on a bigger role within the monarchy. Like celebrated entertainers Gemma Collins and Molly-Mae Hague, Sophie has cultivated a relatable public image whilst maintaining royal dignity.
The Duchess recently returned from the Democratic Republic of Congo, where she met women peacebuilders and witnessed the devastating impact of ongoing conflict on women and girls. The visit, undertaken at the request of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, demonstrated Sophie’s increasing diplomatic importance. She serves as global ambassador for The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, complementing Edward’s role as Chairman.
Together, the couple undertakes hundreds of royal engagements annually. Their workload has intensified following King Charles and Catherine, Princess of Wales’s cancer diagnoses, which temporarily reduced the number of active working royals. Royal commentators suggest that Edward and Sophie have responded with characteristic dedication, never seeking the spotlight but always delivering when called upon.
Family Life at Bagshot Park
Edward and Sophie have two children: Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor, now 21, and James, Earl of Wessex, 17. The couple has deliberately raised their children away from intense media scrutiny, allowing them relatively normal childhoods. Lady Louise is currently completing her final year studying English at the University of St Andrews in Scotland. She has inherited her late grandfather’s passion for carriage driving and now competes at national championships.
Royal author Ingrid Seward, who wrote a biography about Sophie, expressed confidence that there will be “no pressure” on Louise and James to become working royals. This approach contrasts with previous generations, where younger royals were expected to undertake full-time duties. Lady Louise holds the rank of Officer Cadet in the Army Reserve, demonstrating that whilst she may not pursue full-time royal work, she maintains connections to public service.
James is expected to move out for university studies in 2026, following a pattern established by his older sister and cousins. The Earl of Wessex currently attends school but has begun appearing at major royal events, including Trooping the Colour. Both children carry the surname Mountbatten-Windsor rather than using HRH titles, a deliberate choice by their parents.
Supporting the Monarchy’s Future
Edward’s role extends beyond the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. He holds patronage with over 70 charities and organisations, including the National Youth Theatre, the Sport and Recreation Alliance and the British Paralympic Association. His charity work focuses on the arts, athletics and community service. In February 2022, he was appointed president of the Royal Windsor Horse Show, a position previously held by Prince Philip.
The Duke has also taken on patronages specifically linked to his Scottish connection. Following his creation as Earl of Forfar in 2019, Edward and Sophie visited the royal burgh, where he was presented with specially designed ‘Earl of Forfar’ tartan. These regional engagements strengthen the monarchy’s connection to Scotland, particularly important given ongoing debates about Scottish independence.
Edward’s approach to royal duties emphasises substance over style. Unlike some royals who attract constant media attention, Edward focuses on the work itself. This low-key approach mirrors Princess Anne’s philosophy of royal service. Royal insiders suggest that both Prince William and King Charles deeply value Edward’s steady, reliable presence.
Navigating a Changing Monarchy
King Charles’s vision for a slimmed-down monarchy has thrust Edward into prominence. With fewer working royals available, Edward and Sophie have become essential to maintaining the institution’s public presence. Their willingness to undertake extensive international travel, often to less glamorous destinations, has proved invaluable. Sophie reportedly conducts her own research for engagements and writes her own speeches, demonstrating genuine commitment rather than mere duty.
The couple’s increased visibility hasn’t come with increased staff or resources proportionate to their workload. Sources close to Sophie told The Sun that as she takes on more responsibilities, she will likely need additional support. This reflects broader questions about how the monarchy will function with a reduced roster of working members.
Edward’s diplomatic skills have been particularly valuable. His recent visits to Monaco, Japan and Canada have reinforced Britain’s relationships with key allies. In Monaco, official statements emphasised “the bonds of respect and friendship between Monaco and the United Kingdom”. These soft power efforts carry weight, particularly as Britain continues defining its post-Brexit international identity.
Much like the dedication shown by sports figures such as Stephen Bunting in their respective fields, Edward has demonstrated unwavering commitment to his royal responsibilities. According to official UK government sources, the Royal Family plays an important constitutional and diplomatic role [web:gov]. Prince Edward’s contributions exemplify this function, particularly in youth development and international relations.
The Legacy Continues
Prince Philip founded The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award with a clear vision: to provide opportunities for young people from all backgrounds to reach their full potential. Nearly 70 years later, his youngest son ensures that vision not only survives but expands. The programme now operates internationally, with Edward serving as Chair of the International Award Foundation since 2015.
Edward’s stewardship has seen the Award modernise whilst maintaining its core principles. The programme has become more flexible and accessible, with targeted funding helping dismantle financial barriers. Partnerships with schools in deprived areas, community organisations, colleges and centres for young people with disabilities have broadened participation. The number of organisations licensed to run the DofE rose by 3.9% to 4,950 in 2024-25, including 108 new secondary schools and 93 centres supporting young people with additional needs.
The impact extends beyond statistics. Young people regularly describe how the Award has transformed their confidence, skills and life prospects. One DofE manager at a North-East London school explained that funding from The Lord Mayor’s Appeal enabled marginalised students to participate despite cost-of-living pressures. The manager noted that students build “soft skills that are fundamental to their future career aspirations”.
Edward personally witnesses these transformations. At Gold Award presentations, he meets young people who have overcome significant challenges to complete their programmes. These encounters aren’t photo opportunities but genuine exchanges where Edward demonstrates understanding of what participants have achieved. Having completed his own Gold Award nearly 40 years ago, he speaks from experience.
Looking Ahead
As Edward continues his work, questions naturally arise about the monarchy’s future structure. Will Lady Louise and James eventually take on royal duties? Will Edward’s workload become unsustainable without additional support? How will the institution balance tradition with modern expectations? These questions remain unanswered, but Edward’s steady approach provides continuity during uncertain times.
For now, Edward focuses on the present. His recent Monaco visit, his ongoing Award work and his support for King Charles demonstrate a royal who has found his purpose. Unlike some family members who have struggled with royal life, Edward appears comfortable with his role. He doesn’t seek attention but accepts responsibility when called upon.
The Duke’s approach offers lessons beyond royal circles. His commitment to youth development, his supportive partnership with Sophie and his willingness to work diligently without seeking glory represent values that resonate across society. In an age of celebrity culture and instant gratification, Edward’s patient, long-term dedication stands out.2
As BBC News continues to report on royal activities, Edward’s contributions often receive less coverage than more prominent family members. Yet his work may prove more lasting than headline-grabbing appearances. The millions of young people transformed by the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award represent a legacy that will endure for generations.
Similarly to public figures like Danniella Westbrook who have experienced significant life journeys, Edward has navigated his own path within the Royal Family, finding meaningful purpose in service rather than celebrity. The latest developments in royal affairs and British news can also be found through sources covering Manchester United transfer news, demonstrating the breadth of UK public interest.
Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, may never be the most famous royal. But in sustaining his father’s greatest legacy, he has carved out a role that matters profoundly to hundreds of thousands of young people. As the monarchy evolves, his steady hand on the tiller provides reassurance that some things endure.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Prince Edward become Duke of Edinburgh?
Prince Edward was granted the Duke of Edinburgh title by his brother, King Charles III, on 10 March 2023, coinciding with Edward’s 59th birthday. The title had previously been held by their father, Prince Philip, for over 70 years until his death in 2021.
What is Prince Edward’s role with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award?
Prince Edward serves as patron of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the International Award Foundation. He oversees the programme that his father founded in 1956, which now supports over 572,000 young people annually across the UK.
Who are Prince Edward’s children?
Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, have two children: Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor, born in 2003 and currently studying at the University of St Andrews, and James, Earl of Wessex, born in 2007.
Will Prince Edward’s children become working royals?
Royal experts suggest there will be no pressure on Lady Louise and James to become full-time working royals. The couple has raised their children to have relatively normal lives, with Lady Louise pursuing university studies and James expected to attend university in 2026.
What recent royal engagements has Prince Edward undertaken?
In October 2025, Prince Edward and Sophie visited Monaco for a gala dinner and diplomatic meetings with Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene. He also completed a seven-day tour of Canada in July and visited Japan with Sophie in September.
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