Yeah it is
I've said this before but I don't see why anyone would do a 5 stud conversion on a dead stock auto 4 door. I've seen pics on here of another S2 4 door that looks exactly the same as mine that was 5 stud as well.
You could also look into doing a cert II in auto or something of the sort. You'll go through things like the basics to pulling down engines/gearboxes etc.
I believe you don't actually have to have footwear but if you do it can't be thongs or sandals or something else that could slip off and potentially get under the pedals.