Working Tax Credit and trainee teachers on the GTP

clearingout

Hello,
Just a quick query - not getting a lot of sense elsewhere! Am applying for the GTP but as a single parent with three children who will need before and afterschool care (x2) and full-time care (x1), I need to be 100% sure that the GTP qualifies as working and not as training so that the majority of my childcare costs are covered.

I THINK it's Ok but any experiences would be useful. Thanks!

karenx

Is it paid? As only paid employment counts with WTC to get childcare costs

elisebutt65

It is. I got WTC when I did my teaching practice as long as I did over 16 hours per week.

clearingout

Yes, it's paid a salary (not a very good one!). My concern is the word 'trainee' - I have asked tax credits twice and got opposite answers, both times with great confidence! I assume it's Ok 'cos there will be PAYE and NI and it's full time but wanted to be sure. Thanks.

Sixer

Somebody on this thread received tax credits while doing the GTP:

http://community.tes.co.uk/forums/p/46990/3062649.aspx

lindsaygalaxy

I did, no problems. You may be a trainee, but you are employed by the local authority, so all ok. The downside is MOST wont give you the student discount on your housing benefit, which would be 100% for you as a single parent, so try and see, as you still will be studying at the same time. It makes it easier to get the discount if your GTP is through a University.

All the best, it's hard work, but worth it. Any questions, PM me.

clearingout

thanks lindsay. Housing Benefit isn't an issue as I own my own home but I think you might mean Council Tax Benefit? I'll look into that anyway. Many thanks.