Manci and others,please help:switching,traveling and working

[LondonBased09]

Hello,

I am in the process of switching from a valid Tier 4 (until January 2016) to a Tier 2 (General). My job starts on 12/09, I have a COS and have a premium appointment booked for next week.

My question is: after I get approved for Tier 2, which I hope will be on the same day, can I travel and re-enter the UK around a month before my job starts (e.g. August 13th)?

I am asking this as there is a rule that Entry Clearance is given not more than 14 days before the job starts - but if you apply initially under Tier 2.

However, I already live here, and have a valid visa to enter. Also, I cannot apply during the second part of August as I have another trip abroad (16/08-10/09).

Thank you very much, I am really grateful for any advice! I searched everywhere for this information...