Thanks for the replies. Much appreciated.
Think I will go for the book by C. Hughes. Should have got it a long time ago.
Preparation certainly was a problem with the first cadetship. Later ones was more likely down to sheer numbers and lack of positions available etc etc (sob story - and perhaps my inability??).
Can anyone give me more info about training for PPL in the US (or South Africa as I've heard mentioned). I see that you may be able to save about £2,000 on direct costs, but is this cut down drastically with conversion, accomodation, travel and other costs?.
Any pointers/websites or threads would be good.
Thanks again.