The Biography of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge

Early life and education

The Duchess of Cambridge was born Catherine Elizabeth Middleton on January 9, 1982, the eldest of three children of Michael and Carole Middleton.

Her Royal Highness was first educated at St Andrew’s School and then went on to Marlborough College in Wiltshire where she studied chemistry, biology and art.  In addition to her studies, she also played tennis, hockey, and netball.

Leaving Marlborough College in July 2000, The Duchess undertook a gap year in which she studied at the British Institute in Florence, Italy, participated in a Raleigh International programme in Chile, and crewed on Round the World Challenge boats in the Solent, England.

In 2005, she graduated with a degree in History of Art from the University of St Andrews in Fife, Scotland. She continued to participate in sports playing hockey for the university team. Her Royal Highness first met The Duke of Cambridge while studying at St Andrews.

Work experience and hobbies

Since completing her degree, The Duchess launched First Birthdays – a junior brand to Party Pieces, a company that is owned and operated by her parents.  

Her hobbies include recreational sports such as hill walking, tennis, swimming, sailing, and the arts such as photography and painting.

Marriage

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were married at Westminster Abbey on April 29, 2011.