I know 2 people who have just returned from "South Skies" in Florida where they completed their PPL's.
They had nothing but praise regarding this school..have heard lots of good things about North American as well... Aer lingus used to use Flight safety for a while as far as i can remember...
Agree with all the above...do lots of research and remember glossy brochures dont refuse ink and fancy web pages with todays software only take a minute to create...theres nothing like personal experiences, recommendations , warnings, so ask as many local instructors, members of flying clubs, pilots etc etc as you can. Also number one rule !!! Dont pay out large deposits...pay as you go.