The Royal Victorian Medal (Silver) Bestowed Upon Nanny Maria Borrallo for Exceptional Service to the Prince and Princess of Wales

The hallowed halls of Windsor Castle bore witness today to a significant recognition of discreet yet profound dedication, as Maria Borrallo, the long-serving nanny to the children of the Prince and Princess of Wales, was formally honoured with the Royal Victorian Medal (Silver). This prestigious investiture marks a moment where the steadfast guardian of the future king’s children steps momentarily into the spotlight, celebrated for her unwavering commitment and exceptional service to the royal household.

A Decades-Long Service Recognised

Ms. Borrallo’s tenure as the primary caregiver for Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis has been characterized by professionalism, discretion, and a profound understanding of the unique demands placed upon a royal upbringing. Her journey with the Wales family began in the wake of Prince George’s birth in 2013, a period that signaled a new chapter for the then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Since then, her presence has been a constant, ensuring a stable and nurturing environment for the young royals amidst the ever-present glare of public scrutiny.

The announcement of this honour was initially made as part of the New Year’s Honours list at the close of 2025, underscoring the enduring nature of her service and the depth of appreciation from the sovereign. Today’s investiture at Windsor Castle provides the formal occasion for the presentation of this distinguished award, a personal accolade from the reigning monarch.

The Royal Victorian Order: A Monarch’s Personal Honour

The Royal Victorian Medal (Silver) is an integral part of the Royal Victorian Order (RVO), a distinct and unique entity within the British honours system. Unlike most honours, which are awarded on the advice of government ministers or following recommendations from independent committees, the RVO is bestowed directly at the sovereign’s discretion. This direct conferral signifies a personal expression of gratitude and recognition from the monarch for exceptional service rendered directly to the Crown or to members of the Royal Family.

Established by Queen Victoria in 1896, the Royal Victorian Order was conceived to acknowledge individuals who have gone above and beyond in their service, often over extended periods and frequently in capacities that remain largely unseen by the public. This principle aligns perfectly with Ms. Borrallo’s role, where her most impactful contributions have unfolded away from the cameras and public pronouncements, focusing instead on the foundational years of the young royals.

A Guardian of the Future: Maria Borrallo’s Impact

For over a decade, Maria Borrallo has operated with a quiet competence at the heart of one of the world’s most scrutinized families. Her role has been to navigate the delicate balance of providing a normal childhood experience for Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, while simultaneously preparing them for their future roles within the monarchy. Her calm authority and commitment to anonymity have been instrumental in shielding the children from undue pressure, allowing them to grow and develop in a secure and loving environment.

Her professional training at the esteemed Norland College in Bath, an institution renowned for its rigorous curriculum in childcare and child development, has equipped her with a unique blend of traditional discipline and contemporary expertise. Graduates of Norland are highly sought after for their unparalleled skills in nurturing and educating young children, and Ms. Borrallo’s recruitment by palace staff, reportedly on recommendation, quickly established her as an indispensable member of the Wales’s household.

Milestones and Public Appearances

While her daily work is conducted with utmost privacy, Ms. Borrallo has been a notable presence during key family events. One of the most widely recognized instances of her public role was at the christening of Princess Charlotte in July 2015. On that occasion, she was seen assisting the young family outside the Church of St. Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham estate, providing support as the Princess was settled into a vintage pram. Her presence ensured that Prince George, then two years old, was also cared for as the family prepared for the post-christening celebrations.

The distinctive uniform of a Norland nanny, which Ms. Borrallo has been seen wearing on occasion, including at Princess Charlotte’s christening, comprises a brown dress, a bowler hat, white gloves, and sensible lace-up shoes. This attire has become synonymous with a highly respected and specialized form of childcare, embodying professionalism and a commitment to tradition.

Furthermore, Ms. Borrallo has accompanied the Prince and Princess of Wales on numerous royal tours abroad, ensuring continuity of care for their children during extensive international engagements. Her adaptability and dedication have been crucial in managing the complexities of travel with young children, often in demanding circumstances. The possibility of her accompanying the family on future overseas visits, such as potential trips to the United States, remains a testament to her integral role.

A Personal Touch Amidst Royal Duty

Beyond the formal accolades, the deep personal bond Ms. Borrallo has forged with the Wales family is evident in smaller, yet significant, gestures. A touching example occurred shortly after Princess Charlotte’s birth in May 2015. The Princess left the hospital wearing a cream bonnet, a thoughtful gift sourced by Ms. Borrallo from a Spanish family firm. This seemingly modest act underscored the close and trusting relationship that had already been established, highlighting the personal connection that transcends her professional duties.

The Significance of the Royal Victorian Medal

Receiving the Royal Victorian Medal (Silver) is more than just a formal recognition of service; it is a direct affirmation from the sovereign of Ms. Borrallo’s invaluable contribution to the well-being and upbringing of the heir and his siblings. In a household where every member plays a vital role, Ms. Borrallo’s consistent dedication, her ability to maintain discretion, and her profound impact on the lives of the young royals have clearly resonated at the highest level.

The bestowal of this honour at Windsor Castle, a location steeped in royal history and tradition, further amplifies the significance of the occasion. It serves as a public acknowledgement of the essential, often unseen, work that underpins the smooth functioning of the Royal Family and the nurturing of its future generations.

Broader Implications and Future Outlook

The recognition of Maria Borrallo with the Royal Victorian Medal (Silver) offers a valuable insight into the inner workings of the modern monarchy. It underscores the importance placed on loyal and dedicated staff who provide the crucial support systems necessary for the Royal Family to fulfill their public duties. In an era where transparency and public perception are paramount, the ability of individuals like Ms. Borrallo to foster stability and normalcy for royal children is a vital component of the monarchy’s continued relevance.

Her continued service will undoubtedly play a significant role as Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis continue to grow and their public profiles evolve. As they navigate their teenage years and approach their own future responsibilities, Ms. Borrallo’s experience and steadfast support will remain an invaluable asset to the Prince and Princess of Wales, ensuring that their children are well-prepared for the unique path that lies ahead. The Royal Victorian Medal is not merely an award; it is a testament to a legacy of quiet devotion that has helped shape the youngest members of the British Royal Family.