The findings from King’s College London’s British Coronations Project add to previous research published earlier this year that found children in the UK are more in favour of the monarchy than young adults and that state school pupils back the monarchy more than those at private schools.
Many elements of the service reflected the King’s passion for the environment, from the British seasonal flowers that filled Westminster Abbey to the re-use of historic chairs and thrones and the embroidered insects and wildflowers on the Queen’s coronation robes.
The chrism oil was vegan friendly, made with olives rather than animal products, and the invitations, printed on recycled card, featured the Green Man, an ancient figure from British folklore, symbolic of spring and rebirth.
Dr George Gross, visiting research fellow at King’s College London, said of the new study: “The King’s emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity, with numerous references to the environment, seems to have resonated profoundly with children across the UK.
“The findings show that the opportunity for children to hear the promises the King made in the Coronation oath and the values that he would uphold helped them to better understand the role of the monarch and the UK constitution.
“It seems to have created a stronger bond, which could be particularly important to the Royal family, given the current health challenges they face which are limiting their abilities to carry out some of their normal public duties.”