As one who fell/plummeted through the cracks ...
PPL ... Instructor was thoughtful, supportive and genial. I did OK, including going solo in 6 1/2 hours. (Piper Colt = simples)
RN Flying Grading ... First 3 trips in a Tiger Moth with a supportive [civvy] mentor [2 1/2 hours]. I was then transferred to another civvy "QFI" of the shouting, ranting, persuasion, who managed over the remaining 7 1/2 hours to completely obliterate my confidence and [minimal] skill as I tried to convert from nose-wheel to taildragger.
My only [small] consolation was that following my early retirement from the RN, and some questions being asked via our MP, "QFI 2" was no longer employed in the role. And, thanks for the offer RN, but no ... I didn't want to consider driving ships for a living
