Thanks guys.
So if I read that correctly Phil, I have to be assessed by a full flight training ATO (logbook etc) before I even start the process of the approved groundschool with a distance learning provider, consolidation weeks etc.
Does this then tie me to that particular ATO for the flight training or once I get approval from IAA/CAA then I can carry that over to any provider when I decide to do the flying part?
I'm thinking along the lines of the only ATO's here in Ireland having their own groundschool and insisting I use their material since they're my "assessors", rather than giving me a choice of groundschool such as your own.
Hope that's clear, I ask lots of odd questions lol.