LONDON -- The heir to the heir to the heir to the British throne has taken a big step up the educational ladder.

Kensington Palace said Prince George started nursery school Wednesday, a milestone for the young future king.

Prince William and his wife, Kate, marked the occasion by releasing two photographs of 2 1/2-year-old George outside the school building. Kate took the photos showing George in a blue jacket with a backpack.

The royal couple earlier had announced he would be attending Westacre Montessori School in Norfolk, 110 miles north of London.

The school has said he will receive the same treatment as other pupils.