QNH1013... thanks for your input.
I'm just starting out on the ATPL groundschool, as well as hour building, prior to CPL/FI, so hopefully becoming VAT registered will be worth doing the paperwork for at this stage. The only worry I still have is, as you mention, becoming employed by a school following my training, meaning HMRC will want all the VAT I've claimed back, plus interest. It's a difficult thing to consider as I have, of course, next to no idea where I will be employed once I've got my tickets.
In your opinion, is it reasonable to suggest that I can market myself, and survive financially, as a wholly self-employed instructor? It's whether this is better than forgetting about the VAT thing and allowing for the possibility of a salaried position when I'm qualified.
Any thoughts you care to share on the topic, from your experience, would be greatly appreciated. PM if you wish. Thanks.