Yes, I have a problem with that too! I'd love to do the conversion course; in fact there's one in Manchester in a weeks time and I'd be there like a shot - but I just don't know anyone who would take the day off work. (It would mean taking a day, even though they're only required from 1pm). Actually I do have a friend who could do it, but he's a bloke and nail tips are way too small for his big nail beds so I guess he'd be no good.
As far as using the nail trainers are concerned... I'm an experienced tech and I own two! They're good for practising new techniques etc. For using during tuititon though, they're good for practising application but when it comes to filing they're totally hopeless. It seems those 'nails' only have to catch sight of a file and they come popping out of the socket. Infuriating!
Ali