I think if I had the option I would have gone to my local college, but at 40 it was a no. I went on a fast track and yes I learnt a great deal, but know where near enough.
I also could not find employment from it either, so I have gone the self employed route. I am however very very careful as to what work I take on, and if its beyond me I pass it to a time served guy. And if I can I go so its a learning experience.
Fast track is fine but it really does have its limitations, working in a lovely perfectly square bay. All the pipework you do is new,dry and exposed.
In the real world you will be cramped up like a contortionist, there yappy dog will be trying to hump you. You have either drained down or isolated the feed then you hear a woosh, splash. Then if your not careful you will be trying to solder wet pipe.
They will have white carpets that show everything. But I am loving it all and I am starting to get a fair amount of work, but its taken 12 months.
Then there is the cost of being self employed.
Van, Insurance, Road Tax, Servicing, Derv
Stock & Materials
Tools
P & L Insurance
Advertising
Stationary
NI Contributions
Bad Debt
Wages (If you make a profit)