Training
Well here's a fresh idea for prospective pilots to try ...
If you find your local school too offhand, or don't like the MD/CFI or lots of etceteras ... one option is to find a 'freelancer' .. and there are a few of us out there with 10k instructional hours plus.
They will devote 100% of their time to your personal training ... will get you through the PPL(H) in around four weeks ... who won't want money 'up-front' or even a cheque every day you fly ... but normally a 'settle up' perhaps at the end of each week ... and will make sure the flying is fun, challenging and professional, AND take you to a service standard of helicopter handling. You will get to know your instructor really well and latterly as a friend. You may be taught to actually land the beastie 'engine-off' and to cope with the dreaded T/R failure.
You might even get one that doesn't have to charge VAT.
PS ... Not offering my service as mostly booked for 2011.