SS10 - not sure of your qual's but ASTAC's said this to me when i inquired
"
If you have no previous experience you will need to make sure that you have the minimum educational requirement which the UK CAA are now stating that this must be the equivalent of 2 national diploma’s ( 2 A Level Grades). In some cases you can apply to challenge this if you can prove your experience in Aviation but specifically ATC."
I don't have the A levels or Diplomas so i cant go down this route without them. not sure if Cywbran require this or not.
Your pricing up of the courses is right however unless you live in commuting distance you will have to account for accommodation and food costs on top and thats going to add up. 