With a low time pilot, downwind approaches should in my opinion NOT be attempted if the wind is over 10 Knts, and then be done so carefully as to remind you not to do it again, your problem is one of stick authority, you will run out of it if you are not very careful,
then what do you do!!
Untill that machine fits you like a glove and vice versa you will be better alway having the wind in you face,
