Prep schools - no idea where to start!

[CocoC]

Hello

I'm only 24 weeks pregnant but have decided to start thinking about our future daughter's education already. That's just the type of neurotic person I am, I'm afraid :)

Having been state-educated ourselves, my husband and I have no idea how it all works. I've looked at a few of the websites (DUCKS, Alleyn's, JAPs, Sydenham girls etc.) and it seems as if most of them take admissions from 4+, in the way that a state primary would, although some seem to offer nursery/ kindergartens prior to that.

I know you can register at DUCKs but I take it the others just involve ability assessments at age 4? Should I be thinking about pre-prep/ nursery at my favoured school or can I wait until age 4? Is it a total bun fight or have we got a good chance of getting her a place?

All intel gratefully received, thank you

x