I would just add that if for example you are enrolled on a modular ATPL course with an approved FTO, then it is counted as a necessary stepping stone to reach the ATPL licence.
What is the relevance of this you may think? Well it allows you to apply for a CDL and that means that the first £8000 of your flying costs do not come out of your bank account. Hence you can aquire your PPL on interest free credit for at least 18 months and possibly longer?
I know it only delays the pain, but it is worth looking at.