In pre- pointe they will mostly work on strengthening your feet and ankles. Depending on your Studio, they may choose to use pre-pointe shoes, which are similar to pointe shoes in that they have a box, but they have no shank, meaning your foot has no support.
Yes at first it does hurt, but doesn't all dance? Dance would be the same without pain.
You will notice a difference in your feet, that they are stronger and quicker.
Regular ballet class works on all of your body as well as the technique of ballet. But in pre-pointe the goal is to prepare your feet for the pointe shoes. They will mainly use your feet, possibly with the aid of a TheraBand.
I know I sound a bit repetitive here, but I hope I was helpful.
Congratulations! Next step, pointe!
