answer 1
a trainer is generally slower, more forgiving, and with enough altitude and no wind almost self correcting...this gives a student time to think and react....even the 4 Star series of aircraft aren't as forgiving..in other words thumbs off and the airplane will pretty much stay in the attitude it was in until it reaches the crash site...
answer 2
No...but you should....it would depend on your instructor....best to learn to walk before you run
answer 2 amended
you do plan on using an instructor don't you?...if the answer is no then answer 2 is yes and a roll of trash bags