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Applying for primary school places for your children is a big decision, especially if you have additional considerations such as special education needs or disabilities to factor in. At Twins Trust, we understand the overwhelm of information that can come your way whilst considering the best places for your children's education and we've collated some information here to help you with the applications and appeals process.
How to submit an application for my multiples
You can find information here about the process for applying for primary schools, including the deadlines and how to give your multiples the best chances of being accepted into the same school here.
If you're applying outside of the normal timing for school applications, you can find out more about how to apply here.
Applying outside of the deadline
My child has SEND requirements - how do I consider this with the school application?
If your child or children have special educational needs or disabilities, it's important to discuss what's best for their education with your health visitor or nursery workers. You can also visit the schools that you are considering and speak to the teachers there about their support for SEND children and how they ensure that their needs are being met.
Remember, you are the person who knows your child the best. Ask any questions that come to mind and ensure that you are comfortable with the schools that you're applying to.
You can find out more about who to speak to about your child and getting the support that they need on the UK Government website.
One child has special education needs, but their siblings don't - should they go to the same school?
This is ultimately a personal decision and it's based on where you think your children will thrive the best. Speaking to schools that you're considering is the best approach to understanding whether you should keep them together or split them apart. There is no 'one rule fits all' with multiples. We have personal stories about keeping multiples together or apart and a questionnaire which can help you with this difficult question.
If applying for school outside of the normal applications, your preferred school may have limited availability and it's possible you will be disappointed with the allocated primary school place for your children, or they may get allocated to different schools. Depending on these circumstances you may want to appeal this decision. We have created a support pack and hub of information to help guide you through this process.
Preparing your twins, triplets and more for primary school
Starting school is a huge milestone for any child, so we've created resources, guides and advice to help you navigate this big step.
Further help and resources from Twins Trust
We understand that there are a lot of questions around your children starting primary school - especially when twins and triplets are more likely to experience developmental delays and prematurity. The below resources can help you feel confident and supported with this next stage of parenting.
Access downloadable content as a Twins Trust registered user
Personal stories from parents of multiples
Let it go
Whether you're punching the air or weeping into the sink, Twins Trust’s Co-Head of Family Services, Louise Bowman, offers tips on a good start at school.
Over to you
Together or apart can be a vexed question for parents when multiples start school. But what do the children think?