Switch from T2 to T4 and later on Vice versa?

[johnwoodens]

Dear All

I have two questions regarding switching into Tier 4 and Tier 2 visas and the salaries required.

I am currently working on a Tier 2 visa, however I want to switch into Tier 4 visa to study in a university. I know that there is a 12 months "Cooling Off" period, in which I cannot switch back into the Tier 2 visa. However, provided that I stay in a Tier 4 visa for longer than 12 months to meet this cooling off period and then want to switch back into Tier 2 again, may I ask the following questions:

1- Is the 6 years period for maximum Tier 2 calculated from zero once again, or my previous Tier 2 visa periods will be also counted in toward my maximum 6 years, even after the cooling off period?

2- If I apply for Tier 2 after the cooling off period is passed, will my salary requirement be the "New Entrant" or "Experienced" level?

Thank you.