Obs, I'm not sure if there is a deadline on when the pre-course test must be taken. (If I'm wrong could somebody please correct me.)
However you must have flown 5 hrs SEP in the previous 6 months before starting the course.
(This is all from memory as I don't have my LASORS with me.)
RodgerF has a good suggestion Baldwim, let us know how you get on.
The rates for FI's are variable, from £10/Hr upto £20/Hr for ab-initio PPL. More if teaching CPL, I/R etc...(closer to £30-35/Hr) Definately not riches! Full time guy's will often get a retainer, less likely as a part-timer. This does all depend on the school.