James
Although unsure of your qualifications at present I am sure its safe to assume if you have a pilots license and the ability to understand things associated with flying you are not at all thick.
Dont put ya self down buddy.
As for PATS, I was unsuccesful at Psyc tests for QF last year and told to reapply this year. I did the course and found it very good in a) identifying my weak areas and b) also provide tips on how to approach common tests found at QF.
The course will identify your areas where improvement is needed but should not be treated as a lesson in maths or english. Thats your job!!!
I hop on the QF jet this week for a second go in SYD so time will tell. Getting fired up over this testing wont make it go away, it is becoming more prominent in selections in all industries and stories of ''the right man for the job'' not getting thru will continue. What will be will be!