Timescales
Let's remember while everyone talks about it that two years without gliding in the ATC means that an entire generation passing though has missed out on the opportunity. At 16 you can fly, at 18 you have probably left for work or University. Two years is a short time for grown ups and a major part of a lifetime for teenagers.
I agree with many of the posters here, having gone solo at 17 in a Mk3 at Syerston. It was an amazing feeling and the whole week on the course was one of the most immersive experiences - from getting a rail warrant, ferry, overnight train and bus to RAF Newton, daily bus to Syerston, learning, soloing and returning to school feelng on top of the world.