Almost 1,200 Keele University students have received their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine at a pop-up clinic on campus this week.

Organised by the on-campus GP surgery in partnership with the University, the initiative meant students were able to receive their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine earlier than they might have otherwise.

The aim of the programme was to vaccinate as many students as possible while they are still at Keele, giving them the best protection possible before they head home for the summer break.

All of the appointments were booked in advance and despite the challenges of organising a mass vaccination drive in a short space of time, and the intense popularity of the scheme, the whole programme was a huge success with no complications.

Athena Heavey, a final year English Literature student, was one of the students to receive her vaccine, and she praised the handling of the vaccination clinic initiative:

“I was so impressed with how well-managed the entire system was – it ran seamlessly whilst simultaneously maintaining social distancing throughout, supported by a team of friendly and helpful staff.

“I am incredibly grateful to have been presented with this opportunity as - with the country opening up again - I was beginning to feel more exposed and vulnerable to the virus as I found myself in more social situations. However, thanks to Keele University, I can now feel a lot safer in going about my day-to-day routine!”

Alison Buttery from Keele’s Covid Response Team, who helped to coordinate the clinic, added: “The whole vaccination drive was a real success. Everybody was happy with the process and procedures, and our students all conducted themselves very well, respecting social distancing, turning up on time or early for their appointments and following the guidance. My thanks go to not only the students, but all of the staff who pulled together and helped to make the day a success.”