Could just launch into it by yourself?
As long as you know how to rig your kite and use it's safety systems i see no point in paying money for someone to stand behind you unless your really struggling with getting up and riding. Usually takes most people a couple of sessions before they get the hang of it so don't feel bad if you feel like your not getting anywhere.
If after a couple of sessions your still not going, then head on down to St Kilda and talk to the crews down there. These days it looks like there's 2 or sometimes even 3 schools operating out of there, so head to the quietest looking one and explain you just want a couple of pointers and someone to watch over your shoulder.
