i thought there was no requirement for a theoretical knowledge course these days.
Then you thought wrong, I'm afraid.
FCL.210 Training Course
(a) Applicants for a BPL, SPL or PPL shall complete a training course at a DTO or at an ATO.
(b) The course shall include theoretical knowledge and flight instruction appropriate to the privileges of the BPL, SPL or PPL applied for.
(c) Theoretical knowledge instruction and flight instruction may be completed at a DTO or at an ATO different from the one where applicants have commenced their training.
The requirement for at least 100 hours of theoretical knowledge instruction has been removed in the UK and, at the next amendment to Part-FCL will be removed throughout Europe but the requirement for a course remains.