Twins go separate ways after identical success in A-levels

Twin sisters Elena and Rosa Launder are heading their separate ways after getting identical top results in their A-levels.

The Millfield School students each achieved three A* grades but are splitting up for the first time since birth and heading to opposite ends of the country for university.

Elena will study biological sciences at the University of Exeter while Rosa will head to Edinburgh to pursue her ambition of becoming an architect.

“We didn’t want to go to the same university. We’ve been together for so long and we’ll see each other in the holidays,” Rosa said.

I am certain that both girls will be highly successful at university with their vibrant and committed attitudes

Houseparent Emma Watambwa

Her sister added: “It’s nice to start our own life separately, nice to have our own universities.”

Elena achieved straight A*s in biology, Spanish and product design while Rosa received A*s in French, maths and product design.

“The support from all our teachers has been great. So many teachers are so dedicated and will see us in their free time,” Elena said.

“I’d say to anyone starting, take advantage of all the opportunities. Work hard but enjoy yourself.”

Although the creative pair have been in the same school together, they only shared one class and have been in different classes since Year 6 at Millfield Prep School.

The 18-year-olds, from Somerton in Somerset, both have a keen interest in property design and development and Rosa dreams of launching her own architecture firm.

“We’ve talked about maybe starting something together in the future and see where we end up,” Rosa said.

“We are open to anything and we’ve got similar styles so why not?

“My favourite part of Millfield is all of the trips. Everything at Millfield is becoming more equal now with girls in sport and it’s been great to be a part of that movement.”

The pair, who are half English and Dutch, grew up in Majorca before moving to England to attend Millfield as boarders in Year 4.

When they arrived, they could speak some English but could not write any but quickly picked it up.

Houseparent Emma Watambwa said: “Elena is a true all-rounder, her academic endeavours are exemplary and she has made valuable contributions to fencing and has developed her leadership skills through her role as prefect.

“Rosa has been involved in so many areas of school life through music, netball and being a prefect whilst maintaining an exemplary academic record.

“I am certain that both girls will be highly successful at university with their vibrant and committed attitudes.”