Hello Patou,
These are great questions.
When I studied with Shiva Yoga Peeth, there were 13 students in the group. Everyone had their own room (very clean) with WiFi. My room had a balcony with a brilliant view. I shared a bathroom with one other student only but others had their own individual bathroom. We stayed at the PDI centre in Raiwala, which was beautiful. There were gardens and places to meditate on your own, a small library, dining room, meditation room and two large yoga studios as well as other classrooms.
I was twenty minutes-ish to Rishikesh (beautiful) or in the opposite direction, twenty minutes to Haridwar (beautiful). The practicum was divided into classes for meditation and cleansing (the study of breathing techniques, cleansing processes, concentration, all following the syllabus); two hours of yoga (astanga series of poses and methods for teaching them as well as getting me in better shape to teach); yoga philosophy and history lectures supported with textbooks for study and discussion; anatomy taught by a doctor who discussed an ayurvedic approach to yoga as well as further lectures on standard medical information on the circulatory, muscular, and digestive systems as outlined in the syllabus, two hours of hatha yoga and teaching methods and further meditation study in the evening.
All of this is very well organised with room for discussion. By the second week, each student was given tasks to teach (supported by teaching staff). These tasks increased leading to planning and preparation and taking turns teaching the group. There are written exercises as well. All of these tasks are supported by the teaching staff so I never felt lost. It was an overall brilliant learning process for me.
If I sound really positive about all of this, it is because I am now doing some teaching (confidently) and also providing meditation for some very stressed people in London. I also made good friends who were from all over the world and we have stayed in touch. This school suited me, however, it is good to research all schools and see which one suits you best, because yoga is about you and what you are looking for in becoming a better yoga practioner.
I personally have no hesitation in recommending Shiva Yoga Peeth.
It is important that you find the right place that will support you and your needs in terms of yoga. Ask away… it is the only way to find answers. I hope this was practical and helpful.
I wish you all the best in your search,
Rusty