The Press Association reports that Education Secretary, Alan Johnson, has pledged to keep “vital elements” of the curriculum for eleven to fourteen-year-old students. Shakespeare is considered an “untouchable element” of the secondary curriculum, which all teenagers should learn for a classic, well-rounded British education. Mr Johnson said: “…it’s vital that teachers instil a love of literature in young people and engage them with the best-loved writers from our history. Understanding how language works and being able to express oneself creatively and clearly is crucial in every walk of life.” The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) has been conducting a major review of the curriculum and will publish its final proposals for consultation later.