I learnt to surf with a couple of my mates when we went down to Croyde with my family. They take you out with two instructors per group (normal size 10-15) first they do some standard surfing coaching on the beach but most of the lesson takes place in the sea.
The instruction is given by people who while not professionals, they certainly now what they are doing and they attempt to teach you through fun and from a friends point of view rather than a teacher making it all very light-hearted and enjoyable.
They provide you with your wetsuit and surfboard and it is loads of fun as most people genuinely seemed to get the hang of it towards the end and the instructors really were good.
Not cheap but not excessively expensive - Worth it! read more