The Trailing Edge you have summed it up pretty well.
I too was a student at IAANZ and had to speak up to get flying when the bookings were not equalised. Squeaky wheel gets the oil. And it's not rocket science to pass exams. It is the quantity of information to learn rather than anything that difficult. And if you are having problems, talk to guys that are doing well and see what their study techiques are. A type rating when you make it to the airlines will require a good study technique.
And devolved, why is ctc a good place for getting into the airlines? Not sure what you base that statement on. I know if 2 guys only that went to Eagle and we know well that went. Correct me if I'm wrong please as I haven't heard of anyone else. Though I know of at least one instructor that had an Air NSN interview last week which is good news for her.