I know I'm gonna get blasted for the next statement, and I know there are those FEW that can and have taught themselves to fly. But, unless you're really that darn good, beginners should always seek out and get training from experienced pilots. If they're a qualified instructor, all the better.
I for one have no problem with this statement. That's why many of us here, myself included, are on club lists to help instruct beginners and hang around the beginners forum on RCU and answer questions and try to help solve problems.