BEagle is right about the unrealistically high levels of utilisation at some schools. Many try to fit in an hour's lesson per hour and a half slot...and it means everyone is rushed. I now work at one of these. The slightest little thing - a late start due in the morning due to traffic hold-ups, a student who needs to learn the "A" check taking a long time doing it, a slightly long briefing, ATC delays...and you're running behind without being able to make it up. I refuse to shortchange my students to make sure we run on time!!! I've complained about it, and been told there's no reason why it shouldn't work!
One hour in two usually works, but only if people arrive on time etc.
smallpilot, the only solution I know of is to buy a share in an aircraft; then you can book it for the day with no hassles. It'll cost you less in the long run too. Hiring usually doesn't work for anyone who wants to do more than the odd local flight. If you can't do that, book your slots early rather than late. You're more likely to get them on time, and if not, YOU can be the one arriving back late (having had the time you booked).
