I applied to NATS in November 2002, and went to London for testing in Feb this year, followed by a successful interview day in April. I was told that the next course would be the October 2004 course, subject to passing the Class 1 medical. They gave me a date in July this year, however I couldn't make the date and have heard nothing since!!
I have since taken up training for a related profession, so am not concerned, but would definitely agree that the communication is not brilliant, but 'phone calls tend to sort things out. Don't think the move to Swanwick has helped matters either! Understand also that the ATCO training course is going through a transition period, with the newer course being shorter than the old course, hence the delay in starting training.
Good luck everyone!