I don't know how it works in the UK, but here in the states we have a lot of latitude in how we introduce people to flying. If you were at the field where I fly, I would offer to let you have a few minutes in control of my training plane, with the student transmitter setup. I would remain on the master transmitter, prepared to switch control to myself when needed.

Check with a club, if you can find one nearby. You may get the opportunity to evaluate for yourself what you want to fly first.

Good luck,
Dave Olson