Dutch princess Alexia has left the parental palace to continue her studies at the United World College of the Atlantic in Wales for the next two years.

The 16-year-old will be following in her father’s footsteps, as king Willem-Alexander also attended the prestigious school to gain his International Baccalaureate.

The king told the press during the annual summer photo session that his daughter should ‘enjoy her time, make friends for life and learn about other cultures’.

‘She will be experiencing different cultures day and night at the college, as I did during my time there. At 16 you know yourself to a certain extent but you are also like a sponge, absorbing outside influences. The opportunities she has are fantastic,’ the king said.

Alexia will be joined by fellow royal princess Leonor of Spain.

Fees for the college are some €43,000 a year. The school also takes pupils on scholarships.