This may help.
I already had a company which had been trading for a few years before I decided to get my fATPL. So we asked HM C&E if we could claim the VAT back if my company trained me to become a commercial pilot. The answer was yes as long as the company then charged my services out.
So after this conversation with my local office on the advice of my accountant we got it in writing as well. My company now charges me out as a commercial pilot and we are several ŁK better off.
Not sure how you go on if you don't already have a company set up. My accountant is a top bloke as we have kids he told us to fill in the working family tax credit. I filled it in not expecting much, did I get a surprise.
It all helps pay for the dream.
Cheers
TD