I didn’t quite get 24A. Also 7D clue & entry seemed slightly mismatched — maybe “follower” rather than “graduate”? (Maybe that is my US perspective showing.)
I suppose that 24A doesn't entirely work, you're right -- while people who elope may be cheating on someone else, it's not a requirement. As to 7D -- "Grade one" is a term that can be used for a first-grader in some places :)