Elstree - No Thanks!
Hi LPlate!
I learned to fly in a relaxed and friendly environment and latterly taught in one.
It was me that unwittingly started a lively debate about Elstree in Pilot Magazine last year.
I found the airmanship there sadly lacking if not bloody scary and certainly not conducive to flight safety.
My advice to you is that you are more likely to enjoy your flying training elsewhere.
If you need to travel then buy some CD's for your car with the money you will save by not queing at the hold for lengthy periods. Your blood pressure will also not be affected by Mr Nasty in the tower. OK, I know he has had his charisma bypass replumbed but - hey - you are the customer here.
Make a day of it and drive as far away as you can from Elstree. There are some wonderful aero clubs out in the sticks.