I am already a member but this is the next step and, yes, it does, on the face of it, seem a little excessive to need to go on a workshop in order to be able to fill in the aplication form!
However, although I wasn't really looking forward to it, I did find it helpful and it has given me the push I needed to start the process. It is lengthy and time-consuming and has to be done just right, otherwise you are 'deferred' and have to pay another £70 to resubmit - that's in addition to the initial £210.
What I am finding, however, is that doing it is more interesting and satisfying than I thought it would be and it certainly makes me reflect on my practice, which can't be any bad thing...
I say this now, but how I shall feel at the end of it all is another matter.
Ah well, What is it the RAF say?
Per ardua ad astra!