I'm currently doing my PPL at Stapleford weekends only. Did my first solo last weekend - I'm about 15 hrs in. I am very happy with my choice after spending a lot of time looking at the options. I live near CanW and drive so it's very easy for me to get out there (around 30min). I've never had a problem with aircraft availability (c152), I have on a couple of occasions struggled to get a suitable slot with my instructor, but only when I haven't booked in advance. There's a decent clubhouse, the circuit traffic is busy enough to keep you on your toes but not so much that you have to hold for 15mins before take off. It's also good as going east out of the circuit immediately puts you into contact with Southend which now they have EZY there means there's a bit more radio traffic so you get used to listening out for callsign/squawk codes etc. Best of luck with your choice.