So Spider I'm not sure of your circumstances but I went for Direct and got knocked back because of lack of life experience and what not ( I had just turned 18) He waived the 12 month wait and said to come back for ADFA and I'd have the best chance, I got through doing that. If you're set on Direct maybe taking the extra 6 months to gain life experience maybe holiday on your own, live away from home or even just your volunteering might help.
Ultimately it's what you think is best but they want people with life experience for Direct no doubt about that.
And thanks philk thats exactly what I wanted to know. Also I've sent you a PM