I have been in your situation (I am 19 now), and I shopped around for a while because I had no money! I found that no-one could even come close to CIS insurance, which is the Co-op insurance company. They let you pay monthly as well. I hope this helps.
Ive just been in that situation and churchill were by far the best. The others were all similar, and I rang alot. I also found that getting a quote online is no cheaper than ringing around, even though they say you get a 10%discount etc! In fact mine was cheaper than the online quote.
Your never going to get "cheap" insurance at 17 no matter what your driving. I always found elephant good though and HIC were helpfull as well. Just be prepared to take it in the pocket!
Sorry to copy everyone but I went through Tesco for my first year's insurance and they were by far the cheapest. Try Direct Line - they're about the same price for me.
Yet again, Tesco. Though this year - mines due on the 31st - I found Churchills, who are normally expensive, cheaper. Tesco have only reduced my premium by �25 this year even though I've got 65% no claims! Look at www.screentrader.co.uk
I got cheap insurance from C.I.S. also. then I had a bump(not my fault). They were terrible to deal with! Ask around for people who've had a claim settled satisfactorily!