QE has really suffered from a lot of the myths going around. They are actually much more reasonable than they used to be. I know this from experience.
You are allowed to choose your own A-levels, the recommendation system only acts to ensure you will actually thrive in any subject you want to choose. And even if you don’t hit the criteria (which are set at a reasonable 70-80% average in most cases) you will often get a conditional offer based on GCSE grades.
Teachers are much more reasonable than they seem or used to be, and especially later in the school they care a huge amount about your wellbeing. In the Upper School you are given more independence and privileges too, unlike previously. In my experience teachers will mostly treat you with respect. I’m going to be honest, when the maths teacher who was notorious for throwing books and overturning tables on people called me a “good student” then I have to start saying that it really will depend. (She’s now left.)