I couldn't agree more with AMS
I am currently doing the CATS route and have my first exams next week.
I had my study week over here in Florida with Mr S. and it was great.
Being able to go through it in 3 phases suits me perfectly having a family and full time job.
For someone who hasn't studied for many years the classroom time was a really good experience which was a pleasant surprise after thumbing my way through the material.
I would suggest though that getting the books is not a bad idea, I have got the full set, they are well set out, with very digestible sections and practice tests at the end of each part so you can pick up and put down with each subject as you wish.
As AMS mentioned, there is a very personal feel to the CATS ethos, Stuart is always contactable and very generous with his time and knowledge and his motivation certainly seems to be help you become a more knowledgable pilot rather than someone who can just pass exams.
Fingers crossed for my exams next week.