Doncaster Deaf Trust announces historic name change to honour founder
Doncaster Deaf Trust, a nationally recognised provider of specialist education and care, has been renamed The Carr Fenton Foundation, marking a significant moment in the organisation’s history.
The Foundation, which manages Little Learners Day Nursery, Doncaster School for the Deaf, Dickson House Children’s Home, Communication Specialist College Doncaster, Darley Lodge residential care and Aspire to Be employability service, has chosen to adopt the name of the school’s founder, Reverend William Carr Fenton, to reflect its heritage and broaden its appeal for future fundraising and engagement. At the same time, Communication Specialist College Doncaster is being renamed as the Yorkshire Rose College, reflecting its regional position as a specialist college for young people aged 16 – 25.
The school’s name is also being refreshed to reflect the community it serves, and it becomes Doncaster School for Deaf Children.
The change comes as The Carr Fenton Foundation continues to attract pupils and students from across the UK and seeks to build a stronger national profile while remaining rooted in the values that have guided it since its founding in 1829.
Alexis Johnson, chief executive of The Carr Fenton Foundation, said: “Reverend William Carr Fenton’s vision was born from compassion and conviction. He saw the injustice faced by Deaf children who were denied access to education, and he acted. His determination led to the founding of a school that has changed countless lives.
The Carr Fenton Foundation will continue the work William Carr Fenton began - providing specialist support, education, and care
Alexis Johnson
CEO, The Carr Fenton Foundation
“As we look to the future, it feels right to honour his legacy by renaming our charity in his memory. The Carr Fenton Foundation will continue the work he began - providing specialist support, education, and care.
“This is more than a name change. It’s a reaffirmation of our mission and a celebration of our history. We are proud of our past and excited for what lies ahead.”
The Foundation’s leadership team has worked closely with staff, partners, and stakeholders to ensure the transition is meaningful and inclusive.
Reverend Carr Fenton’s story began with a visit to a local labourer in Brookhouse, near Rotherham, who had five Deaf children. Moved by their situation, two of the children were receiving their education 160 miles away, as Yorkshire did not have a provision for teaching Deaf children, Rev Carr Fenton committed his life to creating an institution where Deaf children could learn, grow, and thrive. His efforts led to the opening of the school in Doncaster on November 2nd, 1829 - a quiet beginning to what would become a pioneering centre of excellence. The Carr Fenton Foundation will continue to build on this legacy.