Damn, Damn Damn. Just wrote a whole long missive and then got bounced when I tried to post. Hey, webmaster! Why do I have to log on an average of five times per visit to PPRUNE???
Anyway, fundamentally, heard only good things about 43 in George, check with your CAA re JAR accreditation, flying in SA by far the best value for money you're likely to get privately.
Regarding degrees, definitely get one but I would fly first, then go back to varsity. If you do 4 years at varsity, the chance of you being willing to live with your folks for another couple of years while you do your licence is slim. Also, people tend to find jobs and partners at Varsity which makes it very difficult to then abandon everything for the great blue yonder,
Good luck.
PS, lfc, I too work in media and absolutely love it. and the hours allow plenty of time for flying training.