I've recently done my theoretical PPL exam and waiting for the pratical exam and I do have 10 more hours to fly before. I tell you that I waited only 2 days after the exam to start studing for the first subjects of the ATPL exams. If it was possible I would have joined a distance learning programme but it seems to be not possible. So I can suggest you to manage your time as better as possible and if you can, start to go through the atpl books. That's what I've done.