School staff 'unaware' of childcare savings

Many members of school staff are unaware that they are eligible to claim funds to contribute towards the cost of childcare, it has emerged.

According to Early Years Vouchers, despite having the entitlement to these funds since June 2006, the majority of teachers still appear to have failed to take advantage of them.

Under legislation introduced in 2005, parents are entitled to savings of almost £2,000 per year to go towards nurseries, childminders, after-schools clubs and other forms of childcare.

This can be claimed through vouchers for those who save tax and National Insurance on £243 of their gross salary each month.

While teachers were originally ineligible for this benefit, this changed in June 2006, but many school staff appear to still be unaware of its availability.

"Although teachers were initially exempt from using vouchers, the ruling was reversed over two and a half years ago - yet few have since signed-up anywhere in the UK," explained director of Early Years Vouchers Amanda Ward.

The continuing recession is attracting a growing number of graduates to the teaching profession, according to recent figures produced by High Fliers Research.

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