Paddy.
Id do this with the ISA anyway now.
(well used to.. bought house, didnt do... now do again and hit my 3k last year. and have already put another 1.5k in now )
but you don't get the employers contribution on a private scheme or savings.

i'm just a bit worried about having to pay out over £100 a month more at the moment.

ah well I think you can pull it out within 2 years anyway if Its isn't right.