Hi, yeah I think my initial plan will be to do as you've said and hopefully get a job within an Airline and get my PPL on the side.
I have the same concerns you've mentioned in regards to the ATPL theory, and whilst I feel a proper ground school is the best way, how I'll afford this I don't know. I feel I will have to maybe get my PPL, and then just continue to work and save until I can afford the rest of the training.
Thanks very much, I appreciate that!