Frequently Asked Questions


How many students does BSS have?


BSS has 900 students, ranging from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 12.

What are the entry years?


The main and largest entry years at BSS are Junior Kindergarten, Grade 3, Grade 7 and Grade 9.

What if my daughter is not applying to an entry year?


From time to time, openings become available in non-traditional entry years, so we welcome applications for all grades, and interview as necessary.

Does my daughter have to write the SSAT?


If your daughter is applying to Boarding, she is required to write either the SSAT or TOEFL exams. If your daughter is applying as a Day student from a school outside of Ontario, she is required to write the SSAT. All students applying who have attended an Ontario School for one year or more are not required to complete the SSAT.

ALUMNAE

What is the policy for alumna (Old Girl) and sibling applicants?


One of our core values at BSS is to develop a strong community. We embrace opportunities to strengthen our connections with our current families and alumnae community. When we have more than one qualified candidate for an opening, the School is happy to allocate this position to a family that has a previous connection with us. However, it is important to note that another key value that we strive to maintain at BSS is to attract a diverse and exceptionally talented student body and we will continue to welcome students and families from local, national and international communities.

BOARDING

How do I apply for citizenship (Visa/Study Permit)?


As required by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, students who are not Canadian citizens but who want to study in Canada must apply for a study permit and/or a temporary resident visa. http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/study.asp.

Once a student is accepted to BSS and fees have been paid, the School will provide appropriate documentation to support a student’s application, but it is the responsibility of the family to file the complete application.

Please visit our Boarding site to learn more about our Boarding program and see our Boarding frequently asked questions.

Does my daughter need a custodian?


At BSS we require that all boarders who live outside the Greater Toronto Area also identify a “Student Supporter.” In situations where a family member or friend is acting as the custodian for immigration purposes, many families will appoint the same individual as the Student Supporter. The Student Supporter must: act on behalf of the family in the case of an emergency; be wiling to accommodate and supervise the student during long weekends or breaks during which the School is closed, in the event of disciplinary action, if the student is ill and can not remain at School, or in case of School closure. The supporter must be 21 years of age or older.

What type of security is there?


Although the School is located in a very safe residential neighborhood in Toronto, known as Forrest Hill, the School has 24-hour security coverage. All entrances to the School and to the residence are monitored by camera and have alarmed doors. Detailed information on Boarding procedures are provided throughout the transition process once a student is enrolled in the School.

PROGRAM

Are there Religion classes?


In Grade 7, students have an introduction into the concept of spirituality through a study of the Judeo-Christian roots of BSS and compare them with world religions. In Grade 8, the focus shifts to Social Justice and how everyone can be a voice and be actively involved in global issues.

Does my daughter have to go to chapel?


Senior School students attend a Chapel three mornings a week where announcements, celebrations and performances are shared. The Chapel service is run by students and provides a context in which spirituality and social justice is shared and action taken.

What if my daughter is not Anglican?


BSS is based on an Anglican tradition, but is a multicultural and multidenominational community. BSS welcomes girls of all religious affiliations and cultures. All major religions are represented in our student population.

Where do BSS graduates go to university?


100% of our students continue on to university. Students accept placements all over the world and are accepted into a variety of specialized programs. Counselors in our Student Services Department are incredibly knowledgeable and will work with your daughter to ensure she has all the information and support she needs to apply to the universities of her choice. Learn more about how BSS students are supported by the Students Services department for University preparation, here.