There are other schools that you should consider.
CTC have a good course; it doesn't have to be linked to their cadet programme: can just be a self-funded course.
Bristol Aviation is worth a look; probably the best IR centre in the UK and now running full-time ab-initio courses that are very competitive.
Flight Training Europe in Spain is popular with Brits, although its Euros pricing looks expensive now.
As to whether you should start training now; I've seen quite a few recessions, and this question always arises. Despite what people say, each recession has been significantly different. The only common element is that if you happen to be graduating in the middle of the recession when there are no jobs, it is rather challenging. Looking back at them, they are always small blips in the onward and upward growth in aviation. So starting training in a recession is not necessarily a bad thing, but graduating in a recession ain't great.
To get into this industry you need a mix of emotion and logic. Do what you heart says, but not if your head strongly disagrees.
Good luck
