Motorcycle and Scooter appreciation

I've just booked a 5-day course for March to get my license, now that the CBT and theory are out of the way. I remember spending the whole day being bloody freezing during the CBT, despite wearing everything I could find in the house, so I think I'd better do some shopping.

Basically, I won't be getting a bike straight away, I'm just getting the licence sorted now. So I don't really want to spend too much. I've got a leather jacket that my dad used years ago and I'm going to pile all the merino I own on underneath that, and I've got a neck warmer. What gloves should I get?

I'll be wearing jeans - not ideal, I know, but I can't really justify buying leathers - and probably some Uniqlo long-johns. What about boots? Is there a decent/cheap/warm pair anyone can recommend?

Also, should I buy my own helmet rather than using the test centre's? I'm a bit lost with all this, to be honest, so any help would be much appreciated. My course is booked for March 2nd so I've got a bit of time.

Sparky if you want it and can pick it up from Bethnal Green you can have my old Frank Thomas black leather jacket for nowt. Size 44 chest, 2 zips for varying fatness/jumpers underneath, etc. removable liner, zip to connect it to FT trousers. Elbow armour, space for shoulder armour, foam back protector.