Teaching Assistant queries

[cakedup]

I am looking at Teaching Assistant roles and have noticed that many pay per day i.e. you are not paid during school holidays. I'm wondering if these should be avoided, as you would have very few rights - does anyone have any bad experiences?

Also, I need to work at least 16 hours a week in order to qualify for working tax credit. Does the fact that I would not be working 16 hours during holiday time mean I won't be eligible? I'm presuming I would if it is a permanent contract (as they are paid holidays) but not if you're paid daily?

[StuffandBother]

Is it an agency f they are offering daily rates? If so, I presume you wouldn't be guaranteed 16 hours. I've never seen a TA job advertised like that.

[cakedup]

I think it is mainly agencies, yes. But they will be short or long term contracts with specific hours attached. There are loads of them!