I've known of a couple of students actually buy a group share in a plane, C152, PA28 etc... then just pay the instructor for their time. Could potentially work out cheaper,
Could well do, and not be valid for licence issue! All training must be conducted at a Registered Facility who must notify its instructors and aircraft to the CAA! Also the group aircraft may not be insured for training!
Bear in mind, not all flying clubs have to pay extra for landings, that's a point worth checking out. I have never instructed at a club where home landings are charged above the basic price quoted but many clubs are disadvantaged that way.
Paying up front is paying for someone elses PPL! Who is going to pay for yours?
He who buys the cheapest in Aviation usually finishes up with the most expensive!