www.theeventingway.co.uk
Stephen Way excellent rider and follows up with lessons with owners so they can carry on the work after schooling. Lots of testimonials on website. Highly recommended.
Stephen Way based near Salisbury might be close enough? Not BE accredited but a well respected trainer with over 20 years experience up to 4* eventing.
Aston le Walls always good for first timers educational but fair tracks. Agree that the courses are more technical as the season progresses but are always a fair test at the level in my opinion. We always aim to run first time upgrades at Aston. Good luck!
You're on the right lines with a hanging snaffle I would say, but I'd probably go for a jointed mouth rather than a french link.
Also worth considering nosebands - grackles are permitted for BE competitions, or a drop noseband both might give you a bit more than just a flash.
As you say...
Can't comment on the boots, but zips on MT breeches don't last more than 5 minutes! I've tried different styles and OH has the same problem so not just the ladies styles! Love the breeches otherwise but it is very annoying!