Welcome to the forum
You may receive differing advice but I would be content to place the compost as the next action. You will be above the path, and over time you probably will build topsoil, nature supposedly takes a thousand years for 1″ but my beds are distinctly higher after 5 seasons, such that I have raised the paths to support them.
Orientation is a controversy, some support both/either options. Personally,I try to plant so that shade is not created where unwanted, but have planted fruit bushes to create shelter from prevailing wind. You might plant as squares not rows to confound the purists.
Regarding bed size, my rows suit me as 2metre, I am tall and can reach in at least half way.
My beds are around 4metre, I plant leaving ‘stepping stone’ areas so as to gain occasional access through the middle without actually having a path.
Good luck with your growing, we love to receive updates, before and after photos and detail from the wider world.
