Key takeaways
There’s no single rule for whether twins, triplets or more should share a class
Decisions work best when they’re based on each child’s personality, confidence and needs
Schools must consider each set of multiples individually, not follow a blanket policy
Starting school with twins, triplets or more
Starting primary school is a big milestone for any family, but when you have twins, triplets or more there’s an extra question to think about: should they be in the same class or separate ones. You want to give each child the best start, protect their bond and help them feel settled.
There isn’t a universal answer. Every set of multiples are different and what works well for one family might feel completely wrong for another. You might have a strong instinct already, or feel unsure and pulled in different directions. All of that is completely normal.
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Key things to think about when choosing classes
A helpful first step is to look at your school options. Which schools are realistic for your family? How many forms are there in each year group? Does the school tend to mix classes regularly or keep children with the same group? Asking these questions early can give you a sense of how flexible things might be over time.
Many schools use a free flow system in Reception, where children move between classrooms and shared areas. If your twins are in different classes, they may still see each other for much of the day in that first year. For some families, this feels like a gentle step towards more independence.
Your children’s personalities and bond matter just as much. Notice how they are together. Do they work well as a team, or wind each other up and struggle to concentrate? Does one tend to speak for both, or fade into the background? These patterns can give clues about whether a shared class would support them or hold them back.
It’s also worth paying attention to how the school communicates. Ask about their experience of teaching twins, triplets or more and how they usually approach class placement. The way staff respond to your questions can tell you a lot about how open they’ll be to ongoing conversations once your children have started.
Policies and capacity play a part too. Schools shouldn’t have a rigid rule that all sets of twins and triplets are separated or all kept together. There’s legal precedent that they should look at each set of multiples on a case by case basis. If you do encounter any blanket policies insisting multiples are separated or kept together, we can help via our Professional Advice Service. (LINK). The UK School Admissions Code also allows infant classes, from Reception to Year 2, to go over the usual size limit to admit twins, triplets or more, so you shouldn’t lose a place just because you have multiples.
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Different approaches that might suit your children
For some families, keeping twins together feels like the most natural choice, especially in the early years. Starting school can be overwhelming, and having a familiar face in the same classroom can help both children feel safer and more settled. If your twins get on well and aren’t overly dependent on each other, sharing a class can support their teamwork and the caring bond they already have.
Other families feel that separate classes are a better fit. Giving each child their own space can help their individuality shine. Separate classes can make it easier for children to form their own friendships, build confidence and be known by teachers in their own right. This can be especially helpful with identical twins, who are more likely to be mixed up by others.
If one sibling is naturally louder, more confident or currently finding learning easier, separate classes can reduce constant comparison and give each child space to progress at their own pace. The aim isn’t to push your children apart, but to give them a fair chance to grow on their own terms while still enjoying their special bond at home and in the playground.
One parent told us that once their twins were in different classes, both seemed happier and more confident, even though they still played together every break time.
It can also help to think ahead. By secondary school, most twins should be able to manage in different form groups unless there are particular circumstances. Primary school can be a gentle way to build towards that independence, whether you start together and later separate, or begin in different classes from Reception.
For premium members Twins Trust have developed a together of apart checklist to help to support you with your decision - LINK to Together of Apart Checklist
Working with the school to find the right arrangement
Whatever you decide, you don’t have to work it out alone. Schools that listen to parents and stay flexible usually achieve the best outcomes. Share what you know about your children's personalities, challenges and strengths and ask how the school will support both their bond and their individuality.
Once you’ve accepted a place, it’s a good idea to put your preference in writing as soon as you can, explaining whether you’d like your children to be in the same form or in separate classes. Class lists are usually drawn up in the summer term, so early communication gives the school time to plan.
You can always ask to review the arrangement if things don’t feel right, or as your children’s needs change. You shouldn’t feel pressured into accepting a blanket policy that doesn’t seem to fit your children. We’re here to help with guidance, research and community support while you navigate this choice. If you have particular school related questions, our team of professionals are available through our Professional Advice Service [LINK].
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