PHOENIX. In 18 months,assuming you pass all your exams,checks,medicals etc you may well be in Auckland flying the Jet, earning 64k less 20k loan repayment. How will you support a wife and 2 kids given the cost of accommodation and living there for the next 6 years [until loans repayed]. Youll be ok, dont think the wife will be impressed. wont be too many zoo trips.
In answer to your question 'Why cadet schemes?'
Because they get their pilots cheaper [even make money training them] and they have them bonded for 6 years on pay and conditions below that of a pilot from GA.
If you have a qualification and well paying job, stick to it. You will be better off in the short,medium and probably long term.
ps ..all this talk of pilot shortage assumes continuing availability of cheap fuel and Global financial stability..hmmmmm