Video

If you missed Series 1 Model Flying Marcus Brigstocke spends a weekend at the National British Model Flying Championships.

it's on BBC iPlayer http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b0074tcl/Marcus_Brigstockes_Trophy_People_Series_1_Model_Flying/   F3A does not have to be that expensive the Formosa at £20 will fly the patterns including the vertical climbs and huge loops 
I flew a big F3A model powered by a 120 4 stroke on Sunday, a bit like driving a train as it it stays on track

Spitfire surprise  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvDDDKnNhuE from Pete R-H.  Warning contains swearing

The  fixed wing 'A' test, this may be need if you visit other clubs

1. Carry out pre-flight checks as required by the BMFA safety codes.

2. Take off and complete a left (or right) hand circuit and overfly the take-off area.

3. Fly a 'figure of eight' course with the cross-over point in front of the pilot, height to be constant.

4. Fly a rectangular circuit and approach with appropriate use of throttle and perform a landing on the designated landing area. If the engine stops during the landing, the model may be retrieved and the engine restarted to enable the remainder of the test to be completed.

5. Take off and complete a left (or right) hand circuit and overfly the take-off area.

6. Fly a rectangular circuit at a constant height in the opposite direction to the landing circuit flown (see above).

7. Perform a simulated deadstick landing with the engine at idle, beginning at a safe height (approx 200ft) heading into wind over the takeoff area, the landing to be made in a safe manner on the designated landing area.

8. Remove model and equipment from the takeoff/landing area.

9. Complete post-flight checks as required by the BMFA safety codes.

10. The above schedule is treated as one test flight and must be completed in one attempt. Two attempts per examination will be allowed in any one day.

11. In addition to the flying schedule, the candidate must answer correctly a minimum of five questions on safety matters, based on the BMFA Safety Codes.

Training
I have a 72 inch self launching glider (Easy Pigeon ) fitted with brushless and lipo available to buddy box. Also my park flyer if the wind is light, the park flyer has flown for well over an hour on one battery.
My club at Gloucester has a Seagull high wing available for members and George has used his Super60 to help beginners