I am 15.  I recently had the delight of my Covid-19 vaccination at Sandown Park in Esher. 

 

It’s half-term, and between doing vast amounts of homework, revising for my mock GCSEs that are looming in early December, and going to the gym, I am doing very little else - so this was a little trip out!

 

Upon arrival at Sandown Park, it seemed extremely well organised with plenty of signage such as where to park and where the Vaccination Centre was located. Everyone I met was lovely and very welcoming to me. 

 

Firstly, I was greeted with a huge smile at the external entrance, where I was asked a few questions and offered hand-sanitizer. I then moved inside the building and was asked my appointment time and confirmed my name and date of birth. All members of staff were kind and calm. The third person I spoke with was a nurse who explained what was going to happen next and she asked me some medical history questions and we talked about any possible side effects, and what I could expect. 

 

Sheila - my vaccination person - the lady wielding the needle, was so smiley and chatty, and immediately put me at ease – and within a matter of seconds it was over. I received the Pfizer vaccine. 

 

All 12–15-year-olds must sit down for 15 minutes in the waiting area after their vaccination to make sure they are okay. I wouldn’t describe it as totally mundane, however it was an experience that was far from exhilarating – but I did get a sticker!

 

Overall it was a very quick, well-organised event, with no waiting or queuing - I was in and out within 25 minutes.

 

About an hour after my vaccination my arm ached a little. The next morning it was a bit sore, and I had a slight headache, but I believe it’s a small price to pay. All in all, I would advise readers to have the vaccine. I feel no illness whatsoever after receiving the vaccine and there was little pain for me. 

 

This is a very useful guide for parents: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/covid19-vaccine-what-parents-need-to-know

 

You can read the Government guidelines here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/coronavirus-vaccine-for-children-aged-12-to-15/