high-flung-dung...
Pretty much what I got in the exam, but no v-x climb, steep turns nor any of the pre-flight stuff checked. Strong emphasis on PFL's & circuit work, which is of course fair enough.
Yes, would have much preferred to go straight into the exam. If you fail or even partial fail, then just like for the Skills Test, it can become a "mock" or simply a good hour or so work-out with an experienced instructor.
Flying (especially dual flying) is expensive enough without having to do flights just to fit in with "club rules"
Think there's a strong argument in there for flying (if you can...) with a club that knows you & hence the examiner can perhaps focus in on known weaknesses....dunno.