I'm quite a few years out of the 'office' but there is bags of experience on here to give you the info you need that'll be more up to date than I can give!
A few thoughts, maybe have a look at aviation related courses at London Met Uni. Not sure where in the UK you are or age but the larger airlines in the UK maybe offer graduate positions and much opportunities - BA/easyJet/Jet2 - my airline is big on this, it's good to see, they offer an excellent opportunity to cadet pilots that gives them airline experience before they get to fly without stinging them for outrageous amounts of money!
But thats London, Luton and Leeds though, so be prepared to get your head around aviation is all about travel! Something to think about if you have a family!