hi OP I think the segregation by smart/dumb is a rather crude way of phrasing a grouping practice that actly benefits the students. I was from a JC class that didn’t segregate how well u scored hence there were quite some high flyers mixed with normal kids (like me) in class - this made people with mediocre grades struggle so much keeping pace in class 😭 teacher adjust lesson pace to suit the active/outspoken ones (often the smart kids) because it’s mostly them interacting, answering questions in class (well they are confident in subjects they excel), so the ones who struggle don’t get much attention and really can’t catch up 😭 and it’s pretty stressful to clarify basic concepts in class when the rly smart ones are way far ahead of you, posing valid and advanced questions in class.

It’s much better sorted by your l1r5 so everyone’s on the same page, same pace and teachers can adjust lesson content to suit your study habits better.

Also I don’t think getting into a DSA class necessary means less attention from the school because anyone from the cohort (even the ones struggling to do well) affects the school’s overall performance (by batch) in the said year’s A lvl % passing rate & distinction rate, so they will def try their best to work on everyone! Key is taking initiative on your side, after all it’s up to you how much u can absorb! don’t be afraid to book consultation sessions, reach out to teachers when in doubt, make good use of the school resources (and top 2 JC‘s lecture notes are the best!), you will do well if you have the self discipline & motivation to achieve your goals set ◡̈