I also got the 'black letter' unfortunately. To be honest the length of fuglyship was a nasty shock. 6-12 months I can live with but upwards of 18 months before being given a date for CPL/IR is a bit too much for me I'm afraid. I had a really long drive home to mull it over but in the end I made the decision not to go any further with it regardless of the outcome. But that said, I'd be lying if I said it wasn't a kick in the balls not to be asked to go any further.
I must be missing something with the no feedback policy. Some companies have to do it because of the number of applicants but there was only 7 of us there so can't be that. I know I would have liked to know how my first ever sim assessment went. I felt it wasn't too bad. Not fantastic by any means but certainly no disaster. Really enjoyed it as it goes.
Anyway, for those going through to the next stage....best of luck with the board interview, really hope it goes well for you!!!!!!