Prince Philip’s Gordonstoun report shows leadership talent and irritable temperament

A recently unearthed school report from Gordonstoun School in northern Scotland, written by founder and headmaster Kurt Hahn for Prince Philip’s 1939 Royal Navy application, has been placed on display at the National Archives in Kew, London. The document describes the future Duke of Edinburgh as a “born leader”, a “first‑class organiser” with a natural power of command, praised for courage, willingness to do “dirty and arduous work”, and for being “universally liked and respected”. It also notes his temper, warning that he could become “too irritable” and jump to angry conclusions when thwarted.

The report records Philip’s appointment as captain of the cricket and hockey teams, his membership in the Seamanship Guild, his aptitude for German, and his interest in Greek military history. He received an A for overall intelligence and B‑plus grades for accuracy, reliability and skill adaptability. The records, originally slated for public release in 2041, were made available earlier.