I quite like the NCT also. I don't do any preparation or preliminary work for it though, just let the inspectors do their job. In fact, 55 notes is pretty good value for an annual inspection utilising all the tools and gadgets at NCTSs disposal.
However, it can be frustrating when there's a fault they don't find. My current yoke has a wet weather squeak which I think is coming from the rear passenger side suspension which has gone through the National car test undianosed twiice to date. I'm guessing it's rubber... ifn it was the front I'd be 86.87% certain it'd be the anti roll bar bushes but I don't know if there's an anti roll bar on the back. I'll have to sick me noggin under next time I'm changing the rerar brake pads, I guess.