I came close to getting a fully funded cadet programme myself, few and far between these days. Thankfully my current role has allowed me to save a bit and that's something I'd like to continue into the future.
I'm guessing that a couple of the recent posters' favourite colour is green...
If I could start again at 18, assuming no fully sponsored programmes were available I'd go straight for one of the better apprenticeships, though I imagine the military is also an option for some. Both are a good way of saving dosh and the latter is a bit longer-term with some serious life experience on offer.