Clark writes:

That response would have surprised my instructor on my first stage check when
he pulled power on me just after we had flown over an airport.

Losing power while overflying an airport isn't the same as losing power just
after takeoff.

Yes, I turned it around and landed it - didn't even bend anything either!

It's all about situational awareness, particular circumstances, and training.

The particular circumstances in which you can safely turn around after a total
power loss on takeoff are very rare, irrespective of situational awareness or
training.