Fantaman,
If you're serious about getting back into gliding and carrying it on after your week at Halton; I have one piece of advice: TAKE A LOGGER WITH YOU ON EVERY FLIGHT! Because, the first time you get airbourne without one, you'll achieve something towards your Bronze, if not, your Silver height/duration, and wont be able to claim it!
Actually, that might not be such a bad thing as the robbing b*stards at the BGA commit daylight robbery in charging almost £10 for a signature.
Seriously, you'll enjoy your week at Halton. The staff there are a real friendly and knowledgable bunch. As for after your course, why not enquire about joining the GSA/Chilterns GC to continue your training. It'll probably work out cheaper too.