I'm not sure how they compare because I American and have always lived here, but I could maybe answer some specific questions if you have them? :)
Most kids in my area go to preschool at three and four. This is not every day and is anywhere from a few hours to half the day. Preschool is mostly play. At the one DS went to, they learned a lot of things about the world (science-y type things), sharing, lots of music, etc. They did work on letters and numbers but it was very relaxed.
Kindergarten can start at five. Many kindergartens are full day now but some are still a half day. You can choose to send your child at six instead if you wish. I did this with DS because his birthday is in July.
Kindergarten is where real formal learning begins. They are expected to leave k-garten being able to read simple words and do some arithmetic, as well as get along with peers and follow school rules.
DS is in first grade now (at seven) and they are doing science, subtraction, some geography, etc. The reading work is too easy for him because he is one of the oldest and caught on to reading early. He is reading Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows at home but I know that read simpler stuff at school.
They also have P.E. most days, music class, computers, library time, and art class, all outside of their classroom.