Tier 4 and Dependent Visa

Hi Members,

I have some queries regarding Tier 4 Student Visa and Dependent Visa.

My wife has received unconditional offer of admission from a reputed university in London and her course will start on September end. I am planning to join her on dependent visa, so I have the following queries -

1) Can I come to UK before her visit to the ocuntry ? I mean I come first(as dependent) and then she comes next ? Do both of us have to come together ?

2) Since the course duration is more than a year, I will be allowed to work here, and I want to know if there is any preference by employers to hire those having Tier2 General visa or there is no preference over Visa for work and I can get job easily ? ( I have over 8 years of experience in IT sector)

Any response will be highly appreciated.

Regards,
Pankaj