James McElhinney
Trustee
I was previously a partner at Scrutton Bland, Chartered Accountants based in Colchester and Ipswich. Scrutton Bland has a long relationship with Autism Anglia. The charity’s previous Chairman, John Sparkes had also trained as a Chartered Accountant with Bland Fielden (which later became Scrutton Bland) and Robin Twinn who was also a partner in Scrutton Bland had been Treasurer of the Essex Autistic Society for a number of years.
As I approached retirement in 2012 I was looking for a position as trustee of a charity where I could have some input and John Sparkes was looking for an Accountant to join the board, so it was a perfect fit.
Whilst having no knowledge or experience of autism, I think that my experience as an accountant brings an analytical approach to trustee matters without seeing everything in financial terms, whilst attempting to try and assist helping the Charity ensure its financial future.
I also retain a number of private clients which ensures that I remain up to date with the relevant accounting and legislative matters. I am also a trustee for Emmaus in Colchester and Acorn Villages in Manningtree.
I think that my experience as an accountant brings an analytical approach to trustee matters without seeing everything in financial terms, whilst attempting to try and assist helping the Charity ensure its financial future.
FAQs
What are the 2025/2026 term dates?
Spring Term 2026: 5th January – 27th March. Half Term: 16th February - 20th February. Non Pupil Days: 13th February
Summer Term 2026: 13th April – 20th July. Half Term: 25th May – 29th May. Bank Holiday: 4th May. Non Pupil Days: 13th April and 19th June.
You can download and print our term date documents to keep for reference:
Term dates 2025-2026
Term dates 2026-2027
How can I order uniform & PE kit?
You can download our Uniform and PE Kit order forms and return them to office in person or by email.
How can I request a leave of absence for my child?
You can request time off for your child by completing our form: Student Absence Request Form You can return it to the school office in person or you can email it to doucecroft@autism-anglia.org.uk
What are the lunch menus?
You can view and download our weekly lunch menus.
Where can I get information and support for my child and our family?
Autism Anglia's Resource Hub is packed full of advice, information and support guides. It's free for everyone and you can access it online at any time.
What is the latest news and events?
There's always lots of exciting things happening at Doucecroft. You can read about our latest news stories or head over to our calendar to view upcoming events and activities.
