Paul, this question has been covered very well over the last year. You will get some answers on the current thread, but I suggest in the meantime you set the 'show posts from' option to 'show all posts' then trawl through, say, the last year's posts just picking out the threads you think look interesting, or might help with what you are asking.....
Its a good way to get to know the forum (I see you are new here)
I could post here about what is required, but in reality it all depends on exactly what you want out of flying - there are many paths to take.....best you go off and get the gist of everything.
Best of luck,
Laurie
