Re: Bond protection
I think the bond protection has increased since I did it and it is likely the terms and conditions have changed so someone else may have to update this.
As I understand, the bond protection will not cover the first £10,000 (eg groundschool phase) and you are liable for this if you fail. If you fail later on in the training, you are eligible to get your bond returned to you up to a maximum of £40,000. This may not be exactly correct even when I did it (I am not reading from the contract but it should give you a rough idea). Best thing to do would be to contact CTC directly about it.
If you put in the effort you will complete the ground school so I wouldn't attempt the course if you don't feel up to the challenge.