Sainty, all i can say mate is, be wary of posts written on here, it is very hard to gain an insight into what a school is like thousands of miles across the pond. Going to your local school was a good idea as it allows you to talk to people in person who can tell you their honest experiences rather than read through all the posts on here (some of which may be bias) and try to form an opinion. Basically, if you intend to fly in the U.K you really are better training over there, as you will be building your experience up in an area that you may later wish to train for cpl in, which will make it easier when talking on the radio, plotting routes, etc. However, training in the states is great fun, the weather is great, its cheaper and if you put the study in, then there shouldnt really be a problem doing your flying in the U.K. As mentioned before, Short take offs are in the syllabus, so you will be prepared for your local aerodrome etc. The RT is definately different, it is very relaxed in America, but just buy one of the RT tapes or the oxford communication CD ROM from transair or something if you are really concerned and that should help you out. As mentioned by other posters on here, Ormond Beach had some plus points, i just felt that the level of instruction wasnt very good. The only thing i can stress is, make your decision based on the experiences of people who youve actually spoken to in person. I don't think that is bad advice. Think of the number of flight schools throughout the world, Ormond is the only one to have been listed as a sticky at the top of the thread, due the amount of complaints and controversial postings by ppruners, so you have to ask yourself, why was this the case? Before Paris jumps on my back, i'm sure he did have a positive experience there, others may have aswell, but there are MANY who didnt and they didnt have a bad attitude, they were just naive and poorly taught. Anyway sainty, good luck, hope it all goes well