Windsor Castle, Berkshire – Today marks a significant moment of public recognition for Maria Borrallo, the devoted nanny to the children of the Prince and Princess of Wales, as she is set to receive the Royal Victorian Medal (Silver) at an investiture ceremony held within the historic walls of Windsor Castle. This prestigious honour, bestowed directly by the reigning monarch, signifies profound personal gratitude for Ms. Borrallo’s exceptional service and unwavering dedication to the Royal Family.
A Decade of Discreet Devotion
Maria Borrallo has been an integral part of the Wales family’s life since the early days following the birth of Prince George in 2013. Over the past decade, she has provided a stable and nurturing presence for the young royals, including Princess Charlotte, born in 2015, and Prince Louis, who arrived in 2018. Her role, while often behind the scenes, has been crucial in supporting the demanding schedules and public lives of the Prince and Princess of Wales, ensuring their children experience a degree of normalcy and consistent care.
The announcement of Ms. Borrallo’s award was made public as part of the New Year’s Honours list at the end of 2025, a testament to the consistent and impactful nature of her service. While the public eye often focuses on the more visible members of the Royal Family, this award shines a spotlight on the vital contributions of those who work tirelessly to support them away from the glare of media attention.
Understanding the Royal Victorian Medal
The Royal Victorian Medal (Silver) is a distinct honour within the British honours system, carrying a unique provenance. Unlike most awards, which are granted on the advice of government ministers or scrutinised by independent committees, the Royal Victorian Order (RVO) and its associated medals are awarded solely at the discretion of the Sovereign. This direct bestowal signifies a personal endorsement and deep appreciation from the monarch for exceptional personal service rendered to the Crown.
Established by Queen Victoria in 1896, the Royal Victorian Order was conceived to recognise individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service to the Sovereign or members of the Royal Family. These services are often rendered over extended periods and frequently occur away from public view, highlighting the quiet dedication and loyalty of those honoured. Ms. Borrallo’s award perfectly embodies this spirit, acknowledging her consistent and invaluable support to the Prince and Princess of Wales and their young family.
A Steadfast Presence Through Key Milestones
Maria Borrallo’s commitment to the Wales family has been evident through numerous significant moments in their lives. One of the most widely publicised instances of her presence was during the christening of Princess Charlotte in July 2015. As the Princess was being settled into a vintage pram outside the Church of St. Mary Magdalene on the Sandringham estate, Ms. Borrallo was on hand, offering support to the young family. She was also seen attending to Prince George, then two years old, as the family prepared to return to the main house for the celebrations.
Her training at the esteemed Norland College in Bath, an institution renowned for producing highly skilled childcare professionals who blend traditional discipline with contemporary expertise, has equipped her with the impeccable qualifications expected for such a role. Graduates of Norland are known for their professionalism and discretion, qualities that Ms. Borrallo has demonstrably embodied. Her distinctive Norland uniform, a classic ensemble of a brown dress, bowler hat, white gloves, and practical lace-up shoes, was a memorable sight at Princess Charlotte’s christening, underscoring the unique nature of her profession within the royal sphere.
Indispensable on Royal Tours and Beyond
Ms. Borrallo’s responsibilities extend beyond the daily care of the children within their homes. She has been an indispensable presence during the numerous overseas royal tours undertaken by the Prince and Princess of Wales, accompanying them and their children to ensure continuity of care and familiar routines even while travelling. The logistical and personal demands of undertaking international travel with young children are substantial, and Ms. Borrallo’s expertise has undoubtedly facilitated the smooth execution of these important engagements.
The potential for the Prince and Princess of Wales to undertake further international visits, such as a hypothetical trip to the United States, would likely involve Ms. Borrallo accompanying them, ensuring Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis continue to receive their dedicated care. This highlights her integral role not just within the domestic sphere but also in the broader scope of the Royal Family’s public duties.
A Personal Touch: A Gift of a Bonnet
Beyond the formal recognition of her professional service, there have been indications of the warm and personal relationship Ms. Borrallo has cultivated with the Wales family. A touching anecdote highlights this bond: shortly after Princess Charlotte’s birth on May 2, 2015, the infant wore a cream bonnet when leaving the hospital. This bonnet was a gift from a Spanish family firm, personally sourced by Maria Borrallo. This modest yet deeply personal gesture speaks volumes about the trust and affection that has developed between Ms. Borrallo and the Prince and Princess of Wales, demonstrating a connection that transcends professional duty.
A Legacy of Service Recognised
The awarding of the Royal Victorian Medal (Silver) to Maria Borrallo is more than just a formal acknowledgement; it is a recognition of a decade of unwavering commitment, discretion, and exceptional care provided to one of the most visible and scrutinized families in the world. Her ability to maintain a low profile while fulfilling such a vital role underscores her professionalism and dedication.
The investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, presided over by King Charles III, offers a moment for Ms. Borrallo to step into the spotlight and receive the formal accolades she so richly deserves. Her journey from a highly trained Norland nanny to a recipient of the Sovereign’s personal commendation is a testament to the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have, even when operating away from the public gaze. This honour serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of the support staff who contribute significantly to the functioning and well-being of the Royal Family, ensuring their public duties can be undertaken with confidence and their private lives are nurtured with devoted care. The Royal Victorian Medal (Silver) is not merely an award; it is a direct expression of the Sovereign’s gratitude for a legacy of service that has quietly but profoundly shaped the early years of the next generation of the British monarchy.
