We spend much of the year in rural France. Interestingly we find people much less reserved than in the UK. We've had complete strangers knocking on the door with gifts, when we are out walking drivers always smile and wave, neighbours will do anything to help and are keen to make friends. There are few expats here and I prefer it that way.
Life is much slower, and at times I've found that frustrating. Everywhere is shut on a Sunday afternoon, and many places are shut for 2 hours at lunch; obviously you're aware of that already, but it can be a bit of a bind when you're living here. Also internet order delivery can be slow and expensive depending on where you are. We've found one very odd irritation - if you are ordering from for example, a big chain like Leroy Merlin, you have to order from the stock in the nearest shop, not a centralised warehouse. That often means choice is very limited. It can be cheaper and faster to order from elsewhere in Europe.
In terms of healthcare, it's fantastic here, far superior to the NHS (I say that as an ex NHS employee!). Mind you, it costs more too. Things happen much faster, and it feels like there's less pressure on the system.
Can't comment on schools as our children are all adults. Overall, I'd say go for it, be prepared to love it at first, then over time get a bit frustrated and fed up as the novelty wears off, then fall back in love with it again!