Mrs Riley Bormann joined the school in October 2025 from Chicago and is looking forward to developing this important new role.
Reflecting on her move and experience so far, she writes:
I recently relocated to the UK with my husband and our beloved dog, Moose, and have quickly found a sense of home in Hampstead.
You can often find us strolling through Hampstead Heath on our daily walks or stopping by the local butcher – much to Moose’s delight – as we enjoy the charm and rhythm of the area.
One of the greatest joys of this new chapter has been my role as medical and wellbeing lead at St Mary’s.
Following my previous work in immediate care in downtown Chicago, this has been a welcome and rewarding shift.
The school is truly an inspiring place, where a genuine sense of care and happiness radiates throughout the community.
As a medical professional, I find it deeply fulfilling to support not only the physical health of the students but their overall wellbeing.
Being part of a school that prioritises mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health has made my work both meaningful and immensely rewarding.
Overall, this experience has been incredibly enriching – both personally and professionally – and I feel grateful to be part of such a warm and supportive community.
St Mary’s is currently working towards achieving a recognised School Wellbeing Award, demonstrating its dedication to outstanding pastoral care.
This initiative focuses on building resilience, encouraging open conversations around mental health, and ensuring every pupil feels supported and heard.
Through a whole-community approach involving staff, pupils, and parents, the school continues to embed wellbeing at the heart of daily life.
- Riley Bormann is medical and wellbeing lead at St Mary’s School, Hampstead (stmh.co.uk).
