Whirly - I think you may be right in saying I have been looking at small groups. Most of the adverts I've seen on the web have been for one-third to one-sixth shares. I will definitely look into larger groups now.
Gertrude - Nice suggestion. My imagination has been working overtime on that one!
Gerhardt - of course you're right about that, my only concern was that my flying would amount to nothing more than practice, not having the money for more ambitious projects!
Thank you everyone for your replies - especially CC - I think my fears have mostly been set to rest. Now I just have to get studying and pick a school... oh, and start saving ;-)