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The "Touchstones" series of poetry anthologies was first published in the UK between 1968 and 1972 in five volumes. Over a million copies and three revisions later, "Touchstones Now 11-14" appeared in the summer of 2008. Few, if any, books for the classroom can claim such longevity. In this article, the compilers of the anthologies, Michael and Peter Benton, look back over the 40 years of the series' life. They reflect upon the principles which have guided their choices; and the social and political pressures, often exerted by governments, which they have confronted in their attempt to help school students become enthusiastic, committed and discriminating readers of poetry.

Focuses on the effects of the British National Curriculum and the SATs on teaching and changes in how poetry is examined. States that some teachers view these changes as having a detrimental effect on student poetry experiences, while others see a positive advantage in the changes. (CMK)

Provides results from surveys with secondary school teachers conducted in 1982 and 1998 at the same Local Education Authority. Reports on the teachers' attitudes to poetry, specifically the reading, writing, and discussion of poetry. States that the second survey follows considerable change in the teaching of English and poetry. (CMK)

The proposed design for the 2011 Census in England and Wales, which is considered as a part of the Office for National Statistics' (ONS) proposed future population statistics system, is presented. The ONS would have to carry out further research for improving response rate and understanding coverage, defining population bases, and address the risks identified so that the its proposal becomes successful.

The Office for National Statistics' strategic review process is highlighted for the best way of meeting users' future requirements for information that has traditionally been collected by taking a census. The possible design for such a census in 2011 is reported along with alternative approaches to collect comparable information.

This research asked secondary English teachers in England to rate in importance the reading and discussion of poetry and the writing of poetry in schools and to give reasons for their ratings. Teachers were also asked to note any problems they had with the teaching of poetry. Results are discussed. (RM)

Discusses survey results of the reading habits of 12-13-year-old students in Southern and Central England. Decrease of the amount of fiction read by boys within the age range; Changes in the quality of preferred fiction by girls; Concern over the decline in reading modern classic fiction.