Some interesting comments.
In New Zealand the over head join is taught. We have many unattended airfields where it can be used.
However it isn't the only accepted means of joining the circuit (pattern). The main reason for using it is to determine the runway in use. If you can determine the runway in use by other means (radio, smoke drift, wind lanes etc) you can join on any leg of the circuit without doing an overhead join, provided you follow the circuit direction.
It's not used at controlled airfields.
I saw one post mention the FIS instructed an overheard join be carried out. Perhaps it's different in the UK, our FIS are just that an information service. They cannot tell you to do anything. You as the P in C decide what you will do based on the information they may give you.
Over all if used properly the overhead join is a useful procedure.