G'day Paul,
Mode 1 is the most common in Australia, & it is also the easiest to teach, & I say that as an instructor, you will get lots of different opinions on here, mostly from Americans, who for some reason believe that mode 2 is "the best", but I reckon mode 1 is probably what your instructor will use, & that will determine what you use.

PLEASE use an instructor, at a local club, it will cost you a lot less in the long run.
Of course, if you decide to teach yourself, make sure you take a large plastic garbage bag to bring home the pieces.