UK’s Princess Kate visits Reggio Emilia to study early childhood education approach

Catherine, Princess of Wales received Italy’s Primo Tricolore replica during a visit to Reggio Emilia, where she is highlighting early childhood development and education. The trip, her first official overseas engagement since cancer treatment, focuses on the city’s “Reggio Emilia approach” to learning centered on community, environment, and relationships.

Alex Fraser, Antonio Denti, Oriana Boselli/Reuters

14 May 2026 at 07:34:01

The Princess of Wales visits the Loris Malaguzzi International Centre during the first day of her visit to Reggio Emilia, Italy on May 13, 2026.

Stuart C. Wilson/Reuters

Britain’s Princess of Wales on Wednesday (May 13) was awarded the Primo Tricolore, a replica of Italy’s national flag, during her visit to the Italian city of Reggio Emilia, renowned for its approach to early childhood education.

Kate, on her first official overseas trip since undergoing cancer treatment, was starting a two-day visit as part of her work focusing on childhood development, a central theme of her public work.

The visit will centre on the "Reggio Emilia approach", which places relationships, the environment and community at the heart of a child’s development.

In her meetings with administrators, teachers, parents and children, Kate will focus on the historical roots of the city's schools, the role played by women, the connection between nature and learning, and the involvement of the local community, officials said.

-Alex Fraser, Antonio Denti, Oriana Boselli/Reuters