Portland College welcomed Abbey Medical Group on to campus earlier this month to provide a Covid-19 vaccination clinic to help protect its vulnerable young people.

Nearly 300 people attended the clinic to receive their first dose of the Oxford University – AstraZeneca vaccine, joining over 12 million other UK residents who have already been vaccinated.

The clinic was delivered by GPs and a team of medical practitioners, supported by Portland College staff, who managed the logistics and coordinated appointments.

Having remained open as a critical service over the last year, Portland College has transformed its campus into a COVID safe environment.  One-way systems, social bubbles and smaller group sizes spread across the site help maintain social distancing.  Remote learning and virtual therapy sessions ensure those shielding can still access vital services, and regular testing of front-line staff and residents helped to keep everyone safe.

Mark Dale, college principal and chief executive, said: “We are extremely thankful to the whole team at Abbey Medical Group for the opportunity to participate in the vaccination programme on campus earlier this month. A high percentage of our residents and learners are clinically vulnerable and now all our care home residents are vaccinated and the majority of staff who work with them.

“Throughout the pandemic, we have worked hard to protect our vulnerable young people and our staff, and this huge milestone means we can continue to operate safely whilst the lockdown continues. Well done to all our learners and citizens who took part, in true Portland style, with beaming smiles. We’re all really proud of you.”

The introduction of its own onsite testing centre in January means the college can continue regular testing of learners, residents and staff.