Meet the Governors

Governing Body Membership – 2025/26 Academic Year

Chair: Alice McGowan Vice Chair: Patrice Meredith

Name	Governor
Alice Smyj	Chair of Governors
Patrice Meredith	Vice Chair of Governors (Local Authority Governor)
Diane Claxton	Co-opted Governor
Naila Khodabukus	Parent Governor
Vacancy	Parent Governor
Laura Edwards	Staff Governor
Matthew Hytch	Headteacher
Marjorie Morris	Co-opted Governor
Vacancy	Co-opted Governor

Alice Smyj

I am proud to serve as a Co-operative Governor here at Blackheath. I am currently Chair and sit on the Quality of Education Committee.

What I love about Blackheath is the clear commitment to going above and beyond for every child. I am passionate about contributing to an environment that is safe, stimulating and inclusive. Where children are happy, inspired and celebrated for who they are and what they achieve.

In my professional life, I support young people to access and thrive in Higher Education. This role has given me valuable insight into the importance of building strong foundations early on, not just academically but also socially and emotionally. Outside of work, I volunteer at a local Brownie unit, working with younger children to develop their confidence and independence through fun and friendship.

It’s a privilege to be part of a school community that promotes excellence and enjoyment in learning, and where every child is encouraged to shine in their own unique way.

Marjorie Morris

I am a Co-operative Governor at Blackheath Primary School. I currently work for the local authority in the early years team in Birmingham. My previous work experience includes working for the local authority and then a private education company supporting schools with curriculum training, IT training and education technologies for over 25 years. I am a practising Christian and regularly attend St. James Church. I am active in the Church and a member of the Parochial Church Committee (PCC). On Wednesday, I commit to serving the community by providing dinners for those less fortunate or those seeking interaction with others. My other interests include going to the gym to keep fit and healthy.

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).

Diane Claxton

I am very new to the role having only joined in December 2024 as a Co-operative Governor and will work with the Leadership and Management Committee.

I currently work in Democratic Services within the Local Authority, but my background in the majority was working for a large high street bank underwriting mortgages and in my final role as a member of the Property Management team, looking after all the large multi occupied buildings across the UK. I also have experience of working within a Primary Academy as PA to the Principal and I have worked in Further Education.

I was born in Sandwell and now live in the local area, with the exception of living in Scotland for a number of years.

I am a mom and a Nanna and love to spend time with my grandson going on visits to see the animals. I love the theatre (musicals and ballets mainly or a good murder mystery) and one of my favourite things is travelling, although I don’t much like travelling on aeroplanes.

I am looking forward to supporting Blackheath Primary and the children who attend and hope that my time as a Governor will also help me, in turn, to learn and expand my knowledge.

Naila Khodabukus

I have just joined as a parent governor in April 2025. I have enjoyed volunteering at PFA events since the start of the academic year and am looking forward to contributing to the development of the school. I have been involved in education for many years as a secondary school teacher of Biology and Chemistry.

I currently work at a school in Birmingham but also worked abroad in Qatar at an international school which I loved. It is easy to take for granted all the amazing work that primary schools do and being a mum to a 5 year old helps remind me of the wonderful contribution primary school teachers have to the start of our children’s learning journey. My other activities include volunteering in educational activities for the youth at a local community centre.

Governor’s Attendance record

Governor Disclosure

Governing Board Membership and Terms of Reference

Governor Diversity Data