hey pmf i did my training in the workplace, we had a set 'curriculum' to follow and every couple of months an assessor came into my workplace and assessed me there. I never set foot into college althogh a couple of times i had to attend a workshop (not sure it was actually mandatory bt was worth it) that was quite far away but they gave you plenty of notice to arrange cover etc..
Really enjoyed it and i feel that I gained more practical experience than a couple of girls I now work with who attended college. (the college girls said the same)