In Europe, your maintenance experience will be "nice" but not strictly useful. Given all the protocols etc. However, it won't be a bad thing and it won't go against you.
If you were flogging around Africa, Canada, Australia then the bush operators would snatch you off the streets. (Assuming you had piston engines etc)
With respect to funding cadet schemes. Err have you not noticed the BA scheme? It's not exactly like the "old days" but it's better than paying for it yourself.
Modular v integrated. That's another debate you can search through.
Essentially, if you want to go straight to an airline RHS with a min hour CPL/IR, you'll probably need an Integrated course and a lot of luck. If not, save the ££ and do a modular course.