macAilpin: If you have three magic casters, you should be able to clean out New Sorpigal in about a week and leave with an expert in the four elements and three spiritual schools. (Two weeks adding the week in training)
GepardenK: And if you have three knights you should be able to clean out New Sorpigal in a day or two - no training necessary.
I did four knights when the game first came out and was trying different parties. All knights in MMVI was frustrating sometimes but wamping everything was fun. (In MMVII was more challenge than fun if I remember correctly). But in using skill points, you can earn and leave NS with expert in all magic schools by Mid Jan. Best way to begin a standard game that I have found.