Before you do the ATPL's they can be a bit daunting, but they're not that bad. You can work, enjoy your life and study as much as you need, or can, at home. I did it, so anybody can. I started off on a full time course, but realised that the guy up front was just reading from the notes. So I just thought I was wasting my time there. I can read the notes myself at home. I suppose full time you do get good back-up, but a school like Bristol can answer any questions you have on the phone. I found them excellent. But the best option is buy the note from say Bristol, study at home and do the exercises. If you can't do it, then sign up for their full time course, which will cost you that much less because you've already bought the notes. Can't lose, they're the same notes full time or distance. One tip though. Don't plan to put in for the exams when you feel you've studied enough, it won't happen. Just go through the course, and exercises at home, even quite briefly, then put in for your exam. The pressure of the date focuses the studying, otherwise you end up putting it of and not getting around to doing it properly. Good luck, and go for it.