beginer planes other than trainers
Almost any "Stick" type (Ugly Stick, Super Stick... they all look the same) if you reduce the control throws a bit, and balance it a bit (1/2 inch) forward.
The Sig Four Stars make decent trainers. Again, reduce control throw a bit and balance a little forward.
there's really a very large selection of good planes for use as trainers...
If the wing is still good/repairable from the old trainer... you can make a fuselage that looks a lot like a F-14 for it... Very neat looking plane called the "TameCat" which is unfortunately discontinued... I've got one and it draws the kids QUICK! I could come up with drawings for it... E-mail me if you want. I'll need the rib shape from the trainer. (if not flat bottom) and the span and chord.