Hi Johnny,
I am currently in the college on the Area course.
All I can say is be prepared to work hard both on theory and the practical. It is achievable! You will have a lot to do in getting through the first course and then the work keeps on coming.
The Area course is changing so I can't comment on the work rate on that. If it is anything like it is now, the learning curve is very steep!
It does feel like you're are putting things on hold whilst working at the college, for me that is not a problem, but I am well aware of the strains it puts on some of my mates on the course. I'm afraid I can't offer any advice on that one; there are plenty people in the college that read here so I am sure you will get some more useful replies. I will point your post out to a couple of people who have brought their girlfriend/wife/children down here to see if they can offer any support.
Bottom line, it's worth it, speaking to ATCOs you realise how good the job is and it is worth the hard work to get to the point of obtaining that licence!
Good luck with whatever you decide to do.