When I started my PPL training I opted to pay up front to my club and everything was included i.e. 45 hours, all exam fees, landing fees at home field and skills test (excluding medical) I also received a flight case containing all Trevor Thom books, CRP1, Ruler, Protractor, kneeboard etc. I know that a lot of contributors to this forum reel with horror at the thought of paying up front, but for me it worked. I checked out the flying school and gave very careful consideration before parting with my money. I also paid by card; that gave me a certain amount of protection for six months anyway.
Everything went well for me, the flight time needed for me to pass was more than the basic 45 hours and I paid for that time accordingly, but for a simple soul like myself, I found this an easy way to go about getting my PPL.
MF