The Senior Common Room (SCR) is a core part of Collingwood’s extended community bringing together university staff from across disciplines, alumni and external partners who choose to be actively involved in the life of the college. It reflects the breadth of expertise and experience that underpins Collingwood’s intellectual and professional networks.  

Our SCR is not symbolic; it is engaged. Members contribute to college life through events, student performances and informal interaction and many play a direct role in supporting initiatives such as our flagship Collingwood Future initiative on AI, ethics and leadership helping to connect students with ideas, opportunities and networks beyond the university. 

This creates a distinctive environment in which students benefit from regular contact with people working across different academic fields and professional sectors, gaining insight, encouragement and practical support as they develop their own interests and ambitions. 

At its best, the SCR embodies what Collingwood stands for: an open, interdisciplinary and outward-looking community in which relationships are active, mutually beneficial and focused on supporting the next generation. 

Anyone interested in SCR membership should contact the Principal: thom.brooks at durham.ac.uk