Hi Evo76,
I applied for my first Schengen Visa directly with the French Embassy last year. It was very straightforward but they can only cater for certain number of people in a day. You can follow this link to know more about the process and documents that you need to bring with you.
http://filipinaroses.com/showthread....479#post427479
Please also take note that only you or an immediate family member can collect you passport so you might have to stay longer in London. Hope this helps and good luck with your application.
With regards to visa validity, it is always reviewed
on a case to case basis. They do not necessarily give you 6 months' visa during the first successful application, and then 2 years validity during the second one. My first Schengen Visa (issued by French Embassy) was valid for one year, my second one (issued by German Embassy) was only valid for 6 months.