Pace, I think it is actually the opposite.
I think that most PPLs are taught the huge circuit that actually leaves the ATZ (to be on the PAPI at 1000 feet is somehwere around 3 miles from touch down, so given the ATZ is from runway centre this is well outside the ATZ) and when they get going they realise that is not the most efficient way to fly a small single aircraft and therefore adjust accordingly.
BB