first off this instructor isn't that bright...doing it their way would give them 4 minutes less pay...so be suspect!!!!
second off, if it is left hand pattern, entry on the 45 is prefered to downwind, then base then final
and really, you guys on that side of the pond talk real funny...deadside? circuit?
I published an unfamiliar airport entry pattern technique that always works and you clodd hoppers can't seem to grasp it.
here is some free advice...ask three other instructors at the airfield in question and see what they think.
the one that agrees with you is your new instructor.