The Duchess of Cambridge is launching a centre for childhood to raise awareness of the importance of early years which she hopes will "transform lives for generations to come".

Kate said she wanted to "create a happier, more mentally healthy, more nurturing society" with her "landmark" centre, which will focus on research, collaborate with people across the private, public and voluntary sectors on new solutions, and advocate for awareness.

"Working closely with others, the centre hopes to raise awareness of why the first five years of life are just so important for our future life outcomes, and what we can do as a society to embrace this golden opportunity to create a happier, more mentally healthy, more nurturing society," the duchess said in a video posted on the royal couple's official Instagram page.

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"By working together, my hope is that we can change the way we think about early childhood, and transform lives for generations to come."

Kensington Palace described the centre as "a landmark step" in her work, with a royal aide saying that Kate felt early childhood was the "social equivalent to climate change" but it was not spoken about publicly "with the same seriousness".

duchess of cambridge and jill biden
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The duchess has focussed much of her work as a member of the royal family on family breakdown, addiction, mental health and early childhood.

Last week, Kate joined a roundtable discussion with First Lady Dr Jill Biden about the importance of prioritising early childhood education. The duchess and First Lady visited the primary school Connor Downs Academy in Hayle, West Cornwall during the G7 Summit, and visited some of the school's classes, and participated in activities with the students.



10 of the prettiest frill collar shirts inspired by the Duchess of Cambridge
A-Line Ruffle Embroidery Blouse
& Other Stories A-Line Ruffle Embroidery Blouse
Credit: & Other Stories

This delicate A-line ruffle embroidery blouse made from organic cotton also comes in light pink - although it's currently selling out fast. This blouse features voluminous sleeves and looks great with a pair of jeans. & Other Stories suggests completing the look with a pair of black penny loafers. 

Frill-collared shirt
H&M Frill-collared shirt
Credit: H&M

This frill-collared shirt is a bargain at under £20. It has a gently tapered waist, a large collar with broderie Anglaise detailing and buttons right down the front. We'd wear it with a pair of jeans for a pretty but casual weekend look. 

Pure Cotton Broderie Long Sleeve Blouse
M&S Collection Pure Cotton Broderie Long Sleeve Blouse
Credit: M&S

This cotton broderie blouse has pintucks to the bodice to give it a touch of shaping. It also features a notched neckline, covered button fastening, softly gathered sleeves and a pretty frilled trim at the neck which would look great under a jumper - just like the Duchess of the Cambridge. 

Whistles Forget Me Not Voile Blouse, Cream/Multi
Whistles Forget Me Not Voile Blouse, Cream/Multi
Now 38% Off
Credit: Whistles

This dainty, cream-coloured frilled high neck shirt features florals prints and double layered sleeves to create a floaty feel which will keep you cool and looking elegant when the weather warms up. 

Embroidered Ruffle Cotton Blouse
& Other Stories Embroidered Ruffle Cotton Blouse
Credit: & Other Stories

Emulate Holly Willoughby's style in this embroidered ruffle blouse with gathered shoulders and embroidered cuffs. Wear with a skirt like Holly, or teamed with jeans for a more laidback look. 

Linen top with Peter Pan collar
Zara Linen top with Peter Pan collar
Credit: Zara

We love a bit of linen - it's durable, it's comfy and breathable, making perfect for the upcoming summer months. This very pretty. 100% linen blouse with a Peter Pan collar would look fab with denim. 

embroidered shirt
Zara embroidered shirt
Credit: Zara

This understated v-neck blouse features a ruffled collar, long sleeves and embroidery detail. It has a loose fit for comfort.

Broderie Frill Collar Shirt
Warehouse Broderie Frill Collar Shirt
Now 74% Off
Credit: Warehouse

This pretty Broderie frill collar shirt is currently on sale and is selling out fast, so get yours now. The blouse works well tucked into jeans or a denim skirt. 

Andrea Ruffled Collar Blouse
Anthropologie Andrea Ruffled Collar Blouse
Credit: Anthroplogie

This gorgeous ruffled collar shirt is currently on sale from £98 to £69. Featuring a set of oversized lapels that are trimmed with ruffles.

Ditsy Floral Frill Detail Long Sleeve Blouse
M&S Collection Ditsy Floral Frill Detail Long Sleeve Blouse
Credit: M&S

This floral print round-necked blouse will add a pop of colour to your outfit. It's detailed with a pretty frilly trim around the collar and sleeves, and would look fab teamed with a skirt or jeans.

From: Prima