Chris,
You sound like a sensible fellow, and it obviuosly sounds like you are suited to the integrated life - I wish you well on that. There is no doubt out there that Oxford have everything to back up the reputation that they boast, as do the likes of CTC or FTE for that matter. As long as airlines continue to lift the phone and ask for cadets to be sent for interview, their reputation can remain intact. Placing aside their standard of training, which is without doubt very good, it is maybe because of this fact that they feel they can charge a little more. Saying all this, I can't detract from the opinion that a lot of people can be taken up by the 'hype' which is involved with an airline approved integrated course. I'm not saying that you are an example of one of these people, all I'm saying is it may be prudent to be aware of the pitfalls - however it sounds like you have already! Best of luck again.
CK