Firstly i'm not a newbie, I lost my password and rejoined as it was easier, but have been on this site for about 3 years now reading the threads with interest and some of the responses are less than informative but It's quite strange to see all the various responses to this one, none negative just differing opinions due to personal experiences which makes a change, at the end of the day it IS personal choice based on both recommendations, opinions and budget.
I completed mine kind of via a mish-mash route.
PPL for some years.
Modular attending Oxford Ground Schools which i have to admit that 90% was excellent, the 10% reserved for the lecturers who believed they shoudn't be wasting their time on us.
It was common knowledge that their best performng students were put forward for the interviews so it looked good on them if they all got a job!
BS question Bank revision prior to exams, passed all first time
ME IR In Bournemouth and CPL at my local school all whilst holding down a full time shift work job.
Having completed this in April and by perseverence, I have been offered a job flying A300's and start on November.
So, the question you have to ask yourself is,
What is best for you in both long term and cost effective it it's an isue.
either way best of luck with your decision.