Thank you both so much for your quick responses. As a result, I have bought the EOS 300V from eBay at the "Buy it now" price of £85. VERY pleased! I don't mind getting this, as I am not comfortable using the Minolta - I've always found it too heavy - and will probably sell that now.
Also, I'm quite happy to get a reasonably good film camera and use this from day one on the course. I want to feel comfortable with it and really experiment with film. That doesn't mean I won't line up some shots with the digital first, perhaps!
Thanks again.
Lucy