Harry delighted as he leaves school

Prince Harry punched the air with delight as he left Eton for the last time today. He smiled and waved for photographers before being driven away in a Land Rover packed full with his luggage.

Harry, who has just turned 18, will apply for a place at Sandhurst military academy. He will be assessed by the Army before going before the Regular Commissions Board.

The Pre-RCB assessment will take place during his gap year and, if successful, Harry is expected to join the Army late next year.

His gap year will begin this autumn and is likely to involve travel abroad. Details of his plans will be announced in September.

Harry is likely to be a strong candidate to enrol at Sandhurst after distinguishing himself at Eton in the school's Combined Cadet Corps.

Third in line to the throne, he has not chosen a regiment yet but speculation has centred on the Welsh Guards.

As Parade Commander, with the highest rank of Officer Cadet, he led a detachment of 48 cadets in last month's Eton tattoo.

His proud father watched as Harry confidently barked orders for the guard of honour, which was reviewed by an Army chief.

In an exceptional year for the Eton Cadet Corps, he was runner-up for the top accolade of Sword of Honour.

St James's Palace also disclosed that Harry took two A-levels during his final year at school - art and geography, having dropped history of art.