So from what "height" do you start to teach a standard PFL then, Skyhigher?
If the standard circuit is flown at, or around, 1,000' agl (depending on the individual airfield) then the emergency would commence at "low key" in the PFL, no?
Isn't that what Martinidoc and Beagle are talking about with their glide approaches (into ANY open area, on or off airfield) and standard size circuits.
Of course there are curveballs. Friend of mine did get lost on an extended downwind leg as a student - he completely lost the airport (and a lot of confidence).....but, having said that, he was still at 1,000' agl.
Do you cover navigation for diversions before first solo, just in case the airport closes with the crash of another aircraft (which often happened at Liverpool when I was there). You CAN'T cover all possibilities.