The self improver route is on it's way out unfortunately
I don't think it is. And there is major pressure by some airlines to try and make it happen.
I have a feeling one of the big three is in trouble, just search around the forums and you will see that they are having problems.
They have been saying the modular method was going out ever since JAR came along. And to be honest they need it to go away for the current situation to continue with the size.
They have shot themselves in the foot to be honest with the cadet schemes because before there was a chance after training you got an interview but the majority of shiny jobs now are linked to the cadetship. So the majority of the self sponsored are in the same situation as the modular students post qualifying.