Childcare element of tax credits - help!

[Cubee]

Until recently I was a childminder but my circumstances have changed and I stopped. I have been asked to work as a nanny 16 hours a week. I can take my child along. This suits me. In addition though I am beginning a course this Sept, studying from home. I would like childcare for the times I am studying (prob 1.5/2 days a week). When I look on tax credits calculator the question is worded ' do you use a recognised childcare provider for care while you work?' . Well, I wouldn't be 'working' as in employed, I'd be studying. But I would be employed for 16 hours, just not at the time I need childcare! Am I being daft? Can I still get childcare element of tax credits? My course is really important to me, and this nannying work would fit so well, but only if I can get help towards childcare. Can anyone advise?

Im trying to think, when you send in your hours of childcare they don't ask you what time of the day your child attends, they just ask who provides the care and what their ofsted number is and how many hours a week at what cost. I don't see it would matter. I can see the worry though. maybe ring a general helpline and see what they say? I am pretty sure people on college courses can get help to pay for childcare though.

They are asking who is looking after your child whilst you are working or in your case studying. So this is not about you working as a nanny, this is about the person looking after your child (while you are studying) being a registered childcare provider. So it depends who you choose to look after your child.