I would suggest that the best preparation before starting the integrated course, is to get hold of PPL level training manuals and give yourself a head start on topics like air law, principles of flight, meteorology, navigation etc.
The equipment you need will be fairly basic : Dalton Computer (best get the big CRP-1 for CPL), scale rule, protractor, dividers, simple calculator, knee pad etc. Your training provider will probably be able to supply suitable equipment or occasionally ex-students will sell off their old ones.