I am kind of lookng for the same answers as you musicaldignity but i seem to know a little more so let me help you out a little bit
1. As far as academics I heard there are a lot of reports and homework and its rated very high academically but I also heard it was very managable and girls still had time to enjoy the whole experience. Im not really sure on the textual vs haskafa aspect..I heard its more textual but in each class there are many valuable life lessons taught.
2) As far as japs and being nice- it seems to me that Bnos Chava attracts a lot of in- town girls who are a little jappy but as it is a big seminary there a a good number of out of towners there and thats all i know
3)As far as approachable teachers go, i heard from a girl that recently came back from bnos chava.. that if a girl wants to get close to a teacher and be open with them you are able to but you have to be the one wanting that.. and looking to have a relationship with your teacher.. their not going to be coming after you but they are definitely there for you.
