My advice would be;
1) Look into the uni route. Remember Uni is as much about personal development and life experience as it is academics. That is what airlines are looking for; not some rocket scientist with no social/team skills etc. Have you heard of University Air Squadrons? You can get upto 40hrs flying for free, with no commitment to join RAF etc. Have a look into it.
2) In your position I would apply to any abinitio sponsored/mentored schemes next spring (if they exist). If you get in with an airline then, then go for the flight school option at 18. If you dont get in as a cadet, there's a reason - you are not competitive enough for a job. Therefore I'd take the uni option or go to work, come back in 3yrs time, when (a) downturn over and (b) as an individual, you are likely to be more attractive to airlines.