As far as a big school/small school is concerned, I recommend going to a small one just for your PPL. Many people go into these accelerated programs and find out that they just don't like to fly...even if they initially really thought they did. With a small school, there's no commitment.

Financially, it's the wise thing to do as well. Those big schools tend to be much more expensive than small ones, and while you might get to fly nice GPS-equipped 172's, you're paying more for what I consider questionable and rushed instruction. When you're doing your private, you really need great one on one instruction, and completely at your own pace...big schools can be difficult when it comes to that.

I went to a really nice, small, part 141 school in Long Beach, CA for my private. I only spent roughly $6,000 and I received fantastic instruction in a 1978 152.

What part of California are you looking into for training?