Kate Middleton is gearing up for a trip to Italy next week which will mark her first overseas visit since undergoing cancer treatment.

The Princess of Wales will jet to Reggio Emilia in northern Italy where she will spend two days working with the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood on May 14 and 15.

The solo trip aligns with her long-standing campaign to improve young children’s social and emotional wellbeing, with a spokesperson saying she is “very much looking forward” to returning to international work.

“The Princess is very much looking forward to visiting Italy next week and seeing first-hand how the Reggio Emilia approach creates environments where nature and loving human relationships come together to support children’s development,” her spokesperson said in a statement, People reports.

“As the Centre for Early Childhood continues to build its work internationally, this visit is an opportunity to connect the Shaping Us Framework with leading global approaches, and to highlight a shared understanding, that it is in these early years, through the natural world and the warmth of human connection, that we begin to lay the foundations for a resilient and healthy future.”

During her stay in Italy Princess Kate will spend time with early educators parents, children and civic and business leaders in a “significant step” for the the foundation, her office at Kensington Palace says.

The 44-year-old underwent major abdominal surgery in January 2024 and revealed two months later in a heartbreaking public message she had been diagnosed with cancer.

She stepped back from overseas duties and the public eye while undergoing chemotherapy treatment and focusing on her recovery.

One year later, at the start of 2025, the future Queen revealed she was in remission, describing her health journey as “incredibly tough.”

In an emotional video shared earlier this year, Princess Kate reflected on the “fear and exhaustion” she experienced at the hands of cancer.

“On World Cancer Day, my thoughts are with everyone who is facing a cancer diagnosis, undergoing treatment, or finding their way through recovery,” she said in a voice overlay in the video.

“Cancer touches so many lives – not only patients, but the families and friends and caregivers who walk beside them.

“As anyone who has experienced this journey will know, it’s not linear.

“There are moments of fear and exhaustion. But also moments of strength, kindness, and profound connection.

“Today is a reminder of the importance of care, understanding, and hope. Please know you are not alone.”

The announcement of the Italy trip comes after the family celebrated the 11th birthday of Princess Charlotte at the weekend with the release of a new photograph of the young royal.

Charlotte was pictured standing in a patch of white flowers as she smiled broadly in a black and red striped jumper and jeans.

Captured by photographer Matt Porteous, the photo was shared to the Prince and Princess of Wales’ official social media accounts.

Princess Kate and Prince William share three children, Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 11, and Prince Louis, 8.