Applying for primary school for your twins or triplets

Getting ready to apply with twins, triplets or more

Starting primary school is a big milestone for your children and for you. When you’ve got twins, triplets or more there’s a bit of extra admin in the mix, so this article breaks down what to think about when you’re applying for primary school.

In England, applications for children starting in the school year they turn five usually open in September and close in January, with offers made in April. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales the pattern is similar, but exact dates are set by each nation or local council. Some open applications in autumn and close in December, others run through to January or early February.

Because these dates vary, it is worth checking your local authority or education website as soon as your children are in preschool. Popping those deadlines in your calendar can make everything feel calmer.

Understanding applications and what to include

Across the UK there are two main ways to apply. The first is the usual entry into Reception (England, Wales & Northern Ireland) or Primary One (Scotland) when your children first start school. The second is an in-year application, which you would use if you move house, change plans or miss the original deadline. You can usually make an in-year application at any point, although places will depend on space at each school.

Whichever route you use, make it very clear that your children are twins, triplets or more. If there is no specific box to tick, use the notes section. This helps schools and admissions teams understand that your children are linked and should be considered together wherever possible.

You are encouraged to name more than one school on your form. Your preferred school might be close to home, have a good reputation or simply feel right when you visit. Remember that having twins or more does not mean you must choose the nearest school or the one attached to their nursery.

In Northern Ireland you apply through the Education Authority’s online system. In Scotland you usually register with your local council during a set week or period. In England and Wales you apply through your council’s admissions team, often using an online portal. The details look different, but the core idea is the same: apply in good time, make your preferences clear and highlight that your children are multiples.

Visiting schools and thinking about your options

School visits are a great way to picture daily life. Many schools offer open days or will arrange a tour if you ask. When you visit, you might want to ask how much experience they have of twins, triplets or more and whether they are flexible about keeping children together or placing them in separate classes. (LINK INF-047)

Delays, appeals and getting extra support

Sometimes you might feel that your children would benefit from starting school a little later than the September before they turn five. This might be because they are summer born, so they are young for the year, or because they have developmental delays. Multiples are more likely to have been born prematurely, which can affect their development.

Sometimes, a premature birth means your child is placed in a different school year from the one you expected during pregnancy. In this situation, it’s often straightforward to delay their school start to the following year. The rules and processes vary across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. It’s important to read the guidance for where you live and speak to your pre-school, health professionals and local authority. Twins Trust education consultants can support you with this too.

Even if you apply on time, you may be disappointed with the school place you’re offered. Very occasionally, twins, triplets or more are offered places at different schools. This is usually because one child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) and the other doesn’t. You may also feel the school offered isn’t suitable for your child. In these situations, you have the right to appeal. Each nation has its own appeals process, including what counts as reasonable grounds for appeal. This can be especially important if your twins, triplets or more have been split.

You do not have to manage any of this alone. We have professionals available [LINK TO PAS] who can help you with the process for delaying or deferring start and appealing decisions. Our online community (LINK) is also there to share experiences, tips and reassurance while you navigate primary school applications with your twins, triplets or more.