You could also take your Skills Test earlier if you were ready for it. It's possible to take the test anywhere after 35 hours iirc (might be wrong on that, but it's definately possible). Then you can build up to the 45 required for licence issue any way you want - NQ or just solo flying.
Robbo - yep - once you start going solo - provided you've got enough dual hours in the book, it's mostly solo circuit training, then your solo xcs which you (might) fly with an instructor first to show you the route.
Once you've gone solo you can expect your 'accompanied' time to drop to about 30% of the hours remaining.
Get ready to love doing those circuits!