Hi Robert

As previous poster said, a lot depends on how keen you are to learn networking. I switched from being a Unix admin to a network person because as with you i found the networking parts by far the most interesting. But i had to do a lot of extra work outside normal work hours to get up to an acceptable level.

You will also need a certain amount of luck/persistence. I would certainly encourage you to take the course but as you are already probably aware experience is just as important as knowledge. Is there any chance that within your current job you might be able to get some exposure to networking while you study.

if you can't then i would srongly recommend you try and pick up some second hand kit off e-bay to practice with.

As for good career change. There will always be a demand for good networking people and if you truly enjoy learning about networks you are already well on the way.

I would also recommend having a look at http://www.jobserve.co.uk which will give you an idea of what type of jobs are available in your area and in the UK as a whole.

HTH

Jon