I agree, to be honest.
If I could go back, I'd do BTEC. I've always been good at coursework, and never have tested as well. I don't really know why I chose to do A Levels and not BTEC. I guess A Levels just sound better. The thing is, you can do relevant BTEC courses and end up in the same position as someone who has struggled through A Levels. A levels, for me, are a lot more stressful, no matter whether it's science subjects, maths or economics, or if its artsy or essay based subjects like English, History and Psychology.
A Levels aren't bad. I mean, they probably open more doors if you don't go to university than say a BTEC would do. You could end up at a fantastic university with your BTEC. D*D*D* is better, in my opinion, that getting BBB at A Level, and I'm pretty sure that whatever university you were looking for with BBB requirement would love to take you in with D*D*D*.
I think unless you're getting really good A Level grades (A*-B), then there's no point. That's if you're good with coursework, and could achieve DDD or above.
Although A Levels are seen as better by employers and universities, I honestly don't think it's worth the stress. I've cried over my A Levels, got countless amount of migraines over the stress and have already researched into clearing, in case I don't make my university choice.