Just to boost your confidence, I had A-levels and a public school education, the guy that got the cadetship over me didn't have A-levels either. They don't like the silver spoon candedate, so if you show them you are determined and willing to give everything up for flying then you are in with a chance!
I have spoken since with many of the guys there including the chief pilot and the general theme is that they want people who are gonna stay with them for a good period.
That said, the "Fuglyship" is really tough going and takes alot of determination to get through and the job at the end is just as hard. They tend to burn there pilots out. Hence thay want to see that you have staying power.
Best of Luck (trying popping into AFT and seeing if there is a cadet around to have a chat with!!)
Mike