Why would you trust anyone who wants all the money up front. A deposit should be sufficient for any operator.
Ask yourself why they want all the money up front? If a school wanted all the money up front I would advise you to walk away.
Of course each to their own and it does take all sorts to make the world go round, I'm just offering up some advice and my opinion.
Good luck and kind regards
Camel Toe
"Over Macho Grande?"