brake disc/pad replacement - how easy?

[gremalkin]

hi all - so why has a friend been quoted 400 quid for new pads and discs on an Almera (1.4 Si, 1996). like, do they need to dismantle the entire front end given that the parts only cost 50 quid? or maybe my friend looks like someone who would pay that much. before i offer to do it for them, how easy a job is it? i have done this job loads of times on other models (volvos, vauxhalls, fords) but never on a japanese model. how easy is it?
pete