Lana retires from Doncaster School for Deaf Children after 34 years
Assistant headteacher Lana Cook has retired from Doncaster School for Deaf Children after 34 years of dedicated service, marking the end of an outstanding career supporting deaf children and their families.
Lana, who was also designated safeguarding lead, started working at the school in March 1992, initially as a speech and language therapist (SaLT). She had moved to Doncaster with her husband, also a qualified SaLT and SEN teacher, who was from the city.
Lana quickly became fluent in British Sign Language in order to deliver the comprehensive SaLT programmes.
Over the course of several years, Lana's role evolved to include providing pastoral support for children. She became responsible for safeguarding, as the national safeguarding policy first emerged more than 20 years ago, going on to become integral to education across the country.
Alexis Johnson, chief executive of The Carr Fenton Foundation, said: "As Lana embarks on the next chapter of her life, we want to celebrate and thank her for her remarkable contribution to the school, our pupils and their families.
“I have had the privilege of witnessing first-hand the positive impact Lana has had on countless children and families. She has always demonstrated an unwavering commitment to doing what is right for children, championing their best interests and ensuring they receive the care and support they need.
“Lana’s extensive knowledge of safeguarding and her expertise have helped shape safeguarding practices not only within our school but across the wider foundation. Her approach has always been deeply child-centred and values-driven, reflected in every interaction with pupils, families and colleagues.
“She firmly believes that it takes a village to raise a child and is a passionate advocate for teamwork, recognising and celebrating the contributions of everyone involved in supporting young people. Lana consistently went above and beyond, showing incredible dedication, resilience and determination, never giving up on a child, even in the most challenging circumstances.
“When I reflect on Lana’s greatest legacy, it is the profound difference she has made to generations of children, helping them develop confidence, self-belief, self-awareness and the skills they need to thrive in life.
“Her influence on our school community has been immeasurable. She is highly respected, deeply valued and will be greatly missed by staff, pupils and families alike. We thank her for her outstanding service and wish her a long, happy and fulfilling retirement.”
While colleagues will miss her experience, wisdom and unwavering commitment to children, they are delighted that Lana can now enjoy a well-earned retirement after more than three decades of service.
Doncaster School for Deaf Children is managed by The Carr Fenton Foundation.
Founded in 1829, the school makes a huge contribution to education for the hearing impaired, and in preparing deaf children to integrate into hearing society.
For further information about the Doncaster School for Deaf Children and The Carr Fenton Foundation, visit www.thecarrfentonfoundation.org.uk/school