While I think that 25 dives is a small number to start with, there are definitely divers with that many that have decent control/natural skill. They are the exception, but hopefully those that want to go out and seek further training are better than average to begin with.
Having said that, I've got less than 100 dives (like 48 hours bottom time last I checked), and finished my intro and cavern a bit over a month ago. While the introduction of side mount right before the class could have caused complications, it sounds like it didn't for you.
When I hear about the zero to hero it's always talking about cavern-full cave in a week, or something similar. While I'll agree going OW training dives->intro to cave can be bad, I don't think spending 6 days to get up to solid intro to cave level is a bad thing. It also doesn't seem nearly as bad as going from OW-full cave in that time.
Cavern sort of seems like a glorified stepping stone anyway, as the same skills seem stressed in each (with a bit more going on in intro).
More power to you OP if you are enjoying it. It sounds like you and Edd would have been able to step in and really addressed it. That type of honesty is important in a course, and it's a discussion I had with my instructor (well one he had at the beginning of the class I guess). If the instructor is willing to fail a student if they cannot complete the standards then I think there is no problem with being excited to get into a new aspect of the sport.
At any rate, welcome to a fun community. I find it's sometimes better to observe and offer small comments. There is much to learn, and I know I pick up something new every time I talk to a new cave diver (new to me that is). It seems that outing your experience can be a detriment, but I personally see no problem with it if you are looking to grow and expand.
Having said all that, don't go in over your head! Take it slow and dive new sites with someone that knows them! Your Sac rate will improve as you are more comfortable at sites, and each time you'll see something new. Personally I'm hoping to do advanced nitrox and deco procedures in the mean time and come back in a year or two to finish out cave.
Safe diving!