S.H.
Some schools are highly structured, ie: rigid. and focus on kids being a certain way.
Some school are the opposite... and allow a child to be a child and learn through play and interactive creative methods.
The Teachers, will usually reflect the philosophy of a school... otherwise they wouldn't work there.
So, you need to know YOUR child and what type of approach, your child would thrive in.
AND how the Teachers handle the children. AND the Director's method of managing the school.
Regardless, you must always do a tour of the school, WITH your child, see how your child reacts to the atmosphere. AND ask the Director/teachers any questions you have. How they treat you/your child will offer you a glimmer of how they "are."
Not all schools with high ratings, will suit a child. I toured a LOT of preschools in my area, WITH my Daughter... and went by my gut feeling as well AND per my Daughter's reaction. I did NOT prompt my Daughter to act or behave a certain way at these tours, I just told her to be herself. I wanted to see the school through HER eyes and what vibes she got. THAT is what was important to me. We chose a Preschool and it was a very happy and good school... which my Daughter loved. She learned a lot all around.
You go according to your child... and what will fit her.
My daughter, started Preschool at about 3.75 years old.
She was happy there and thrived.
That is important...
All the best,
Susan