I did the PTS course in Harlow and can honestly say that it was well worth the investment. I opted for the four week course and not only learnt the obvious basics of tiling but learnt the differences between ceramics, porcelains and stones, as well as tanking, underfloor heating and business startup / development.
I received plenty of practical experience, straight sets, diagonal sets, inset mats and patterns, raised diamonds, box sections, brickbond with 2 borders (1 patterned) and a bloody diagonal set around a window that was so out of true that I had to pack it by over 20mm. Upon finishing the course I had the confidence to take on just about any job. In fact, my second job involved installing underfloor heating, tanking and then tiling walls and floor (60 x 40 vitrified ceramic) with a natural stone pebble border - no worries! My third job was to lay a porcelain floor with 3 different sizes in a random pattern, it's all been plain sailing since that baptism of fire.
Suffice to say that the course taught me everything that I have needed to know and, especially, gave me the confidence to quote and win jobs knowing that I will deliver a high quality result.
My thanks go to Clynton, Pete and Tony for making it fun.