Hello Bazzer,
I just finished the course at North East Tiling training yesterday and there was a guy from Scotland on the course. Glasgow I think was where he was from. He drove down and stayed in a hotel in South Shields where the course is.
In regards to your question about what can you learn in a week as opposed to a 4 week course. Well I can't speak for other courses but North East Tilings course is great. You need to be focused though and you can't afford not to listen. However I have my tiling "bible" now with many great tips and tricks and also info on all the available grouts and adhesives, preperation tips, setting out, pricing and the list goes on and on.
Be prepared to have long days and lots of info presented to you. The days fly by and you will be amazed at how much you cover, but more importantly how much you take in and understand.
I finished yesterday and have a possible 5 jobs lined up already (waiting to hear back). OK one is in my parents house but the others are for genuine customers. I'd put part of this down to my ability not only to go and lay a quote on the table, but due to the knowledge I now have my ability to offer advice on whats best for the customer and to add real value to my service. Oh and my drive and determination to make myself a success at this as well.
My only regret is I didn't do this course a long time ago. The price of the course is also a great bonus too.