On a slighty different tack - I know a number of Air Cadets, who are keen to fly. They're quite willing to share the cost of cross-country trips, which helps out with the cost. I tell them what I'm doing & why, and they learn as I gain hours.
This often gives half-price hours or better. It also helps me because talking about what I'm doing reinforces my knowledge.
**DISCLAIMER** Not an official Air Cadet activity! Not in any way endorsed by the ACO.
Also - without starting the "can passengers handle the controls" debate again - the cadets don't fly the aircraft at all. Not trying to replace/supplement the AEFs! The aim is to allow them to learn about air navigation/aircraft systems, NOT flight training - as I am not qualified to do that.