Scots
I was in the same boat as you.Started in Mar04,course 130 this year at the tender age of 30.
I took a £15k pay cut and I've really struggled financially over the last 6 months,been using my plastic friend to help me out! That said,I have NO complaints because this is the best job in the world. I've got 5-6 months left at the college (summatives permitting!) and I've loved every minute. Be under no illusions,the College is seriously hard work,but its great fun too. The instructors are excellent and so are the courses.
Try and not worry abiut money,just do what I do and think what you'll be earning when you get out!!
Best of luck,
777
P.s Yes you do unfortunately have to pay council tax,the exemption was cancelled a while ago.