It was a long time ago now and things have changed substantially from the way they were done back then. I just remember visiting a traditional private school for girls first, where I was given the distinct impression that my child would be forced into a mould of their making, and then coming to BHMS where I was given the impression that my child would be given the chance to grow at her own speed - the decision made itself right there and then. The educational landscape in Ontario has changed a lot since then, what with full day kindergarten and many high schools now offering grades 7 to 12 instead of 9 to 12. I think parents who are considering the school should be invited to speak with current parents of the school, and not just in the level their children will attend, but also parents of older children. When you join BHMS the idea is that you will complete the cycle to grade 8, but a lot of people think that a Montessori education is only for the pre-school years. An opportunity to speak with those whose children have experienced the benefits of the full program, and/or an opportunity to speak to older children themselves would open their minds to all the wondrous possibilities of a BHMS education.
N/A (as I started at the CASA level, I have no recollection of this!)
I was admitted when I was a toddler so I do not have anything to comment on admissions.