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@CowHen
First of all, you don't want your chain too tight, it's noisy and less efficient, have about a cm of give when you poke it with a finger or thereabouts (unless you're chainline isn't great in which case you run the risk of the chain coming off while riding if it's too loose).
The wheel does not need to be at the end of the dropouts, as long as both nuts have good contact with the dropout and the QR is done up tight then it's fine. Basically, you don't need those metal things in the dropout.
You usually only lose chain tension as the chain stretches, so you shouldn't have to re-tension it that often (though you'll probably have to take your wheel off to change punctures etc. long before you notice this). If you do suddenly lose chain tension, it means the QR isn't done up enough.
Also, the chain quick release links are IMHO bullshit, i can never get them off without fucking up my nails, chain tools are so much easier.
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/fixed.html
About halfway down, he talks about 'walking' the rear wheel to get the tension, though you can only do this with a solid axle + track nuts.