Sounds like we were all in the same boat...
I would really recomend uni
A/. a relevent degree goes well with the employers
B/. it is a good back up plan
How about going to a Uni with a university air squadron?... I didnt do it myself but FREE flying cant be bad.
As for me, I did 3 A levels, then took a year out trying to decide what path to take. I really wanted to fly but being born with a wooden spoon rather than a silver one, I had no cash!.... so opted for Uni....
Because of the degree, I got a really good job that easily paid for my flying. I've since jacked that job in to instruct full time and now looking for the first airline break. thankfully my debt is managable largely to my old job.
Good luck with whatever you decide... there is no one right way, else everyone would be doing it. I know airline guys with allsorts of crazy backgrounds!
I suppose, maximise your options and keep you debt managable.
Ciao