As your current employer paid for class 2 do they not offer incentive of class 1 progression? As alot say above plenty of 0% credit cards around if you have good credit.
As no one has mentioned it… Please STAY AWAY from brokers. They really will pull your pants down with the repayments. Either just save a little often and it will soon add up or work your arse off and hopefully your employer will invest further in you if you show your commitment.