php is very easy to learn. In fact, if you know any languages at all, you should pick up on it very quickly.
Just look at some scripts, learn the syntax of it, and maybe look up some of the vital functions (like dealing with strings and stuff).
I bought a book called the "PHP Blackbook" off ebay for like $2 years ago also that helped me a ton.
Today, I am a self-taught (self-proclaimed) PHP expert. In fact, right now I am developing a PHP class that will be made available at
www.virtualmin.com.