Kenixster - It sounds like you might have some time on your hands so a good start would be to do some extensive searching here on topics such as integrated vs modular, flight school comparisons, UK vs US training, MPL vs ATPL etc etc.
Treat it as a project, take some time and note your findings, then when you have several specific questions, you can post them here. In general you will get some good answers and the benefit of some hard won experience.
"I bet you were the worst on the aer.eng course and got kicked out"
Unfortunately you may get some uneducated, bitter and twisted people who without ever having met you, can make an assessment of your academic prowess and your motivation. Just ignore this type of comment. I feel sure you are mature enough to recognise the tortured mind behind such vitriol.
If you decide to pursue a career in aviation I wish you well. It is a tough place at present but not unlike a lot of other career choices.
Best of luck