Meet the Governors

Governing Body Membership – 2024/25 Academic Year

Chair: Alice McGowan                                    Vice Chair: Patrice Meredith

A Mcgowan

I’m Alice McGowan and I am very excited to be a Co-operative Governor here at Blackheath Primary School. I currently sit on the Quality of Education Committee and will focused on supporting the staff and pupils in achieving the best teaching and learning possible.   In my day job, I support young people across the West Midlands to achieve their full potential within Higher Education and in my spare time, I work with much younger children in my role as Brown Owl at a local Brownie Unit. I grew up on the Isle of Wight so I spend school holidays there visiting friends and family.  I enjoy playing netball and am often found exploring the local canals on weekends.

Marjorie Morris 

I am Marjorie Morris, I am a Co-operative Governor at Blackheath Primary School. During the day, I work with the training team providing support to schools. I have worked in many different roles supporting education over the last 24 years. I am a practicing  Christian and attend St. James Church and in my spare time, I help out by providing community dinners for those less fortunate.  

Patrice Meredith

I joined Blackheath as a Local Authority governor in December 2023.  I’m pleased to have the opportunity to be part of the vibrant community around the school.

My professional background is in primary schools ,as a senior leader in Smethwick schools .I retired a few years ago but retain a passion for local education. I have a particular interest in learning and teaching, inclusion, and children’s well-being.

I came to this part of the world from Liverpool to train as a teacher. I never planned to stay but did, my accent softened , and I have become an enthusiastic supporter of all that’s good about the area, especially its’ children , schools, and teachers.

I love the arts, any music ,theatre ,museums or galleries ! I sing with Brandhall Community Choir ( anything from Tina Turner to sea shanties).

Rebecca Beardsworth

I am Rebecca Beardsworth and I am very excited to join Blackheath Primary School as Co-operative Governor. I currently am employed as a Multi-Academy Trust in Birmingham as an Executive Assistant to the CEO.  I have 20 years’ experience in a range of administrative and human resources roles across Sandwell Childrens Service, high-performing schools and multi-academy trusts. In my spare time I also volunteer as Club Secretary for a West Midlands Cross Country based running league. I own a very energetic Labrador Retriever and spend majority of my spare time exploring the green spaces of the West Midlands and beyond.

Marnie Dando

I’m Marnie and I'm one of the Parent Governors. I have been appointed in this role since September 2024 and regularly attend meetings as well as volunteering with the PTFA. My previous jobs involved working in a Nursery and Youth Club with children up to 14yrs. This meant being involved with the breakfast, After School and Holiday clubs. I also volunteered in local schools to help children develop their reading skills. My current role is working within the medical sector.

As parent of twins my hope as governor is to contribute to help develop the school for the benefit of teachers, children and parents. Being a governor means it is ideal for me to see things from a parental and educational perspective. 

Governor Disclosure

Governor Committee Booklet