Alex,
I live maybe 5 miles from you and doing my PPL at Stapleford, two reasons are no landing fees and I have a very helpful instructor.
Regarding saving why not open up a high interest savings account that you can only make 3 or so withdrawals a year. They normally have a slightly higher interest rate. Set up an automatic transfer when your pay goes in. I did this many years ago for something and after a couple of months you find you don't miss it. If you can put any extra in- bonus!
Like you I was in fear of stalling but after doing a few got used to them.
PM me if you want any more info on my decision to go to Stapleford.