I remember whilst training for my PPL that a couple of times my Instructor took me through and on top of cloud.Once on top he gave back control to me and we continued the lesson in the sunshine.Then he took us back through the cloud at the end.
For what its worth I think I shall do an IMC before the majority of my hours building,anything that helps ease me towards the IR has got to help.All experience helps.
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GET THE BLOODY NOSE DOWN!