Pace, it's not correct that you need a PPL before a night rating. The 5 hours flying to qualify for a night rating can be part of the minimum 45 hours flying needed for the PPL, so 40 hours can be day and 5 hours night.
This is how I did my PPL, and I believe this is quite common.
As to whether it is sensible, well that is another point altogether. Although, I actually found it more enjoyable flying at night - and safer, as most GA flyers are out of the sky.
Last edited by wb9999; 30th October 2012 at 14:02.