In reply to spenser:
Thanks to everyone for the advice which has been given.
Elsewhere: I didn't know such arrangements existed, I'll see if I can find any similar details.
Cu Chullain: I think I'd prefer to get a bit more driving experience before moving onto a van.
Mike: That quote was WITH one of those boxes! My other concern is that a large amount of my driving will be after work on fridays to fun places so it may have problems with when I'm driving, although I will look into them further.
Andy: I got a lift with a friend who drives a focus last night, they do seem pretty spacious so I will definitely look into that option, autotrader does not have any diesel focuses listed for any less than £2000 within 50 miles of me at the moment but my dad has said he has a mate who works for a used car dealership so I may be able to find one through him.
teh_mark: A note is a little more than I was looking to pay, however if I end up deciding to increase my budget a bit it does look like a good option.
Father Noel Furlong: Don't mind having something old as long as it's reliable, not particularly fussed about it being "cool" as long as it gets myself and any partners there with the required kit!
jkarran: I'll have a decent graduate job starting on the first of september so paying insurance in installments would definitely work. I'll take a look at how much that would cost as it seems like a good option.
The New NickB: By pull away at junctions I meant being more like the DS3 that I've been driving recently than the Up which my last instructor had. I have no aspirations of beating Porsches off the line!
Adam: That seems like it would be perfect for me, a couple of friends have fabias and have both said they're nice to drive and can take a decent amount of gear. I'm moving down to Derby in a week and a half but can probably go and pick the car up in a few weeks if necessary as trains back home aren't too expensive.
marsbar: I will take a look at classic cars although I guess that the flipside to a lack of electronics is difficulties identifying problems and not being great on fuel efficiency. I was set to acquire an astra saloon from my dad until it did an impression of a ping pong ball with a couple of crash barriers a few months ago, definitely still an option though as it would meet my requirements!
Thanks to everyone for the advice, it's highlighted a few options which I have. One other option which has occurred to me is to lease a car for a bit which would allow me to build up a period of no claims so I will look at that too.