Ahoy Brendan,
All the best, I started with EE as well by using the demo account. Played around with that for a few months and then finally took the REAL plunge.
Been a roller coaster ride since then, but happy to report that I've been in the green for the most part and still am.
The key is to diversify, don't throw all your hard earned money into one share, that is very risky i.m.o
Happy hunting