[QDM on one of his hobby horses]
I think the problem with circuits as they are taught is that they are too high and waaaay too big. Perspective-wise, it is much easier flying a 500 foot circuit close in to the airfield than these massive, airliner circuits at 1000 feet which we are all taught. Do some 'low level' practice circuits with your instructor and you'll find the picture much easier to visualise and this will then transfer back to when you have to fly circuits the size of the Isle of Wight again.
[/QDM off one of his hobby horses]