Hi
To be fair to the school that really pushed me to get experience in the UK, they pointed me in the direction of local clubs for cheaper prices.
I've only ever flown in the US. My PPL was issued by the UK CAA but I trained in Florida. I can see the sense in getting used to the airspace and RT before starting a commercial course. Maybe I'd do fine without the experience but I can't see the harm in doing it.
All talk though, if the weather is the same as Dublin there's little chance. Even if it looks clear you won't get far.
Thanks