If your reffering it Airways flight training Exeter.
Definatetly the one in my opinion.
Then I am biased I went there.
They fly the Beech Duchess, a very stable platform for the ME/IR. As with Bristol they also use the FNPT II approach to reduce costs of the course.
They have a very friendly atmosphere and the student base is kept low so they dont overcrowd and can usually keep you 2 to 1 with the same instructor.
Give them a call and pop down and see them is the best advice, if you call and there is space they may let you back seat to see what they are all about.
In terms of payment, you pay for the course after the skills test.
Dont think you can take the test then dissapear without paying though, they dont sign your forms until you have paid, i.e. even with the pass certificate the school do not release your FTO training sign off.
It is good from thepoint of view the money stays in your bank earning interest until you complete your training
Obviously if you do not pass the course and are unable to finish, you do still have to pay for the training you have had, it doesnt just become free.