The Common Room

Metro Family Fun Days
2022-04-21 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Our Metro Memories exhibition goes much bigger for our ‘Family Fun Days!’
Nexus is bringing all kinds of extra activities and fascinating showcases suitable for all ages:

Experience the Tyne & Wear Metro’s new fleet in glorious Virtual Reality (this is what the Metro drivers themselves are using for training!)
Build and run a LEGO train, brick by studded brick.
Get kitted out in high vis and safety equipment, as you get ready to work on the Metro!
Help us plan and build our own cardboard city, with its own Metro line and stations.
See the 12ft Knitted Metro Model, made by knitters during lockdown.

Plus even more games and activities at The Common Room!
Tickets for the Metro Family Fun Days include admission to the Metro Memories Exhibition. Find out more about the exhibition itself here.
Booking information
Dates: Thurs 21st – Sat 23rd April
Times: Drop-in, 10am-4pm each day – just book your timeslot and arrive any time during it!
Each person attending, including adults accompanying children, must have their own ticket.
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
Additional information
Location: The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Visitors will be encouraged to wear a face-covering (unless they have a medical exemption) and to practice social distancing. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please visit our home page: thecommonroom.org.uk

Metro Memories Community Events: Travelling on the Metro
2022-04-20 13:00 - 15:00 (Europe/London) | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Share your own memories or bring your pieces of memorabilia of the Metro at our Metro Memories Community Events, and contribute to Nexus’ historic archives! These FREE events are designed to trigger your memories of anything and everything related to the Metro system, so we can add your memories to the community history content of the Nexus archive.
These events are open to all. Current and retired Metro staff, their families and friends are especially welcome. After all, it’ll be your memories that add the human touch to the facts and figures about the Tyne & Wear Metro!

Dr Kath Smith and her team of memory collectors from Remembering the Past, Resourcing the Future will start off each session by sharing a selection of the amazing photographs that have been taken, and films that have been made since the Tyne & Wear Metro began to run 42 years ago. We’re sure that this wonderful material will get some conversations going and trigger happy memories!
Date and Time:
Wednesday 20th April 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Travelling on the Metro: To start us off we’ll be exploring what difference Metro has made in our lives. It could be an easier journey to work, more opportunities to see a show or even take part in the Great North Run! What is your earliest memory of using the Metro? Have you kept your first ticket? Were you one of the first travellers? Come along and share your stories with Kath and her team.
Other Community Events:

Saturday 30th April 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Working on the Metro
Wednesday 4th May 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Constructing the Metro
Booking information
Each person attending, including adults accompanying children, must have their own ticket.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated. As this is a free event, models are reused by future visitors and cannot be taken home.
Additional information
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Attendees will be encouraged to wear a face covering (unless they have a medical exemption) where possible. We would appreciate it if attendees could complete a lateral flow test prior to attending, and we kindly ask you do not attend if you have had a positive test result for COVID-19, or are experiencing symptoms. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please email lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
About Remembering the Past
Remembering the Past, Resourcing the Future holds one of the longest-established digital archives of local history anywhere in the UK, gathering local people’s stories, photos and memories to add to their online archive, which can be viewed at www.rememberingthepast.co.uk
In summer 2021 Remembering the Past, Resourcing the Future received the prestigious Queens Award for Volunteering, the MBE for volunteer groups, for their ongoing work. The team are proud to be part of the consortium of organisations which has produced the Metro Memories exhibition and events.

Metro Memories Exhibition (19 April - 7 May)
2022-04-19 - 2022-05-07 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
The story of how our Metro came to be, as taken from the memories of those who built and lived it

About the exhibition

The Common Room is proud to present, in collaboration with Nexus and the Oral History Unit and Collective at Newcastle University, The Metro Memories Exhibition.
Though the Tyne and Wear Metro has served the people of Newcastle for over 40 years, and is a metro network second in the UK only to the London Underground, the history, significance and cultural impact of this vital system is not widely known to the passengers on their 36.4 million journeys a year.
Here we explore what this transport system means to the people and the history of our region, featuring photographs, films and interviews with key decision-makers including politicians and Director Generals, engineers, designers and retired staff.
The exhibition will be accompanied by a programme of events, including community gatherings to invite members of the public, and former staff, to share their own stories, photographs and artefacts connected to the construction of the Metro. As well as Family Fun Days! *Please note, tickets to these events must be booked separately. To find out what’s on, check out all our events here.*
Exhibition dates and times
The Metro Memories exhibition opens free to the public from Tuesday 19th April until Saturday 7th May (inclusive). During this period, the exhibition will be open to the public from 10:00am – 4:00pm Monday to Saturday, with the exception of the following dates, where the exhibition is closed to the public:
Tuesday 26th April
Wednesday 27th April
Thursday 28th April
Friday 29th April

Booking information
Each person attending must have their own ticket.
These tickets are for the Metro Memories Exhibition only. If you would like to attend events running alongside the exhibition, such as our Metro Family Fun Days, and Community Events, please check our other event listings here to book your tickets.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
Additional information
Location: The Wood Memorial Hall, The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
All visitors over the age of 16 may be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Visitors will be encouraged to wear a face-covering (unless they have a medical exemption) and to practice social distancing. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please visit our home page: thecommonroom.org.uk

LEGO® Mini Model Workshops
2022-04-19, 2022-04-14 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Event details
Join us this Easter at The Common Room, to build your very own mini LEGO® model of some of the North East’s greatest engineering feats, a giant beast from our fossil past, or a rover and helicopter duo to explore the surface of Mars.
Suitable for ages 5+
Models you can build:
– The Swing Bridge
– Stephenson’s Rocket
– The Electric Car
– The Geordie Lamp
– A wind turbine
– The Perseverance Mars rover
– The Ingenuity helicopter drone
Plus our newest models:
– The Turbinia, fastest ship of its day
– Arthropleura, the ancient giant millipede
This ticket includes general admission to explore our historic building, as well as our key exhibitions, including The Neville Hall LEGO® Model, The Mineral Wealth of the North and our Metro Memories Exhibition.
Dates
Thursday 14th and Tuesday 19th April 2022
Workshop times
Workshop 1: 10:30 – 11:30
Workshop 2: 1:00 – 2:00
Workshop 3: 2:45 – 3:45
Booking information
Each person attending, including adults accompanying children, must have their own ticket.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated. As this is a free event, models are reused by future visitors and cannot be taken home.
If you can no longer attend your slot, we kindly ask that you cancel your ticket so someone else may take your place, as demand is very high. Donations can be refunded upon request, if you need to cancel your ticket.
Additional information
Location: Stephenson Room, First Floor, The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
All visitors over the age of 16 may be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Visitors will be encouraged to wear a face-covering (unless they have a medical exemption) and to practice social distancing. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please visit our home page: thecommonroom.org.uk

Family Activity Day - The Face Of Engineering Festival
2022-04-09 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
A day of free, fun and informal science and engineering activities, for all ages.

Drop in and meet real, diverse engineers; get hands-on with some exciting pieces of equipment; discover how your own skills could make you a brilliant engineer! All ages welcome.

Activities for the day include:
Virtual Reality challenges, Skills Test Boards, colouring activities and much more!
Date and Time
Saturday 9th April, drop-in between 10:00am and 4:00pm
Booking information
Each person attending in person must have their own ticket.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
Location: The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE
Additional information
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Attendees will be encouraged to wear a face covering (unless they have a medical exemption) where possible. We would appreciate it if attendees could complete a lateral flow test prior to attending, and we kindly ask you do not attend if you have had a positive test result for COVID-19, or are experiencing symptoms. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please email lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
About The Face of Engineering Festival
The Face of Engineering Festival will challenge stereotypes of who an engineer is, celebrate and drive greater representation in the engineering workforce for women, people of colour and LGBTQ+ people, and bring together young people and families to inspire the next generation of innovators and engineers.
We invite everyone from industry professionals to families to join us for The Face of Engineering Festival this April, as we host a range of events, led by a range of inspiring women and engineers of colour.
Did you know that a 2020 ‘EngineeringUK’ survey showed that only 14.5% of those working in engineering are female? Here at The Common Room, we are incredibly passionate about supporting a future in engineering and wider STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths), that better reflects our society and its diversity.
The Face of Engineering Festival follows on from our podcast series of the same name, hosted by BBC Radio Presenter, Ngunan Adamu. The podcast series celebrated a group of thirteen inspirational female engineers, working across a number of engineering disciplines. Each episode shines a light on the women’s experiences of engineering and innovation – showcasing and championing the important role women play in engineering and STEM careers. You can listen to the podcast here or across streaming platforms, including Spotify.
#TheFaceOfEngineering Festival has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Players (National Lottery Heritage Fund), plus our supporters The Reece Foundation, NA College, The Platten Family Fund (via Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland), Stadler, Nexus, Turner & Townsend, Crowne Plaza Newcastle – Stephenson Quarter, North East Local Enterprise Partnership, and Women in Transport.
About The Common Room
The Common Room is a charity formed in 2017 to restore the Grade II* listed building formerly known to many as The Mining Institute in Newcastle upon Tyne, and its significant archive and collections documenting centuries of engineering, mining and wider scientific innovation.
Thanks to National Lottery players, an £8.9m grant has enabled us to spend over £7 million restoring the building, and around £2m to support our running costs, preserve our collections, and to drive our mission: to use our unique heritage to inspire the next generation of innovators and engineers.

The Face of Engineering Festival - Industry Conference (Live Stream)
2022-04-07 10:00 - 15:30 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join us via live stream for a day-long conference, celebrating the diverse faces in engineering, and driving action around the recruitment and retention of women, LGBTQ+ people, and people of colour in the industry.
We will hear from a range of inspiring engineers via a number of panels, and optional workshops and talks. The conference is open to all, from those working in any engineering discipline, to students and academics, to educators, to those who are just passionate about changing the current face of engineering.
*Please note, the entirety of the conference will not be available to view via live stream, only the day’s panel discussions and talks. Once you have booked your ticket, we will email you the week commencing 4th April with exact timings, and links to access each live stream.*
If you would like to attend this event in person for all, or part of the day, tickets can be booked here.
Booking information
Date: Thursday 7th April
Time: 10:00am – 3:30pm
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
Once you have booked your ticket, we will email you the week commencing 4th April with exact timings, and links to access each live stream.
What’s happening via Live Stream
Welcomes and key note – 10:00-10:40
Welcome from Liz Mayes – Chief Executive, The Common Room
Welcome from Ngunan Adamu – Producer/Presenter, BBC Radio Merseyside; BBC International multi-platform trainer; and Founder and CEO, iWoman Academy
Sponsor welcome: Paul Patrick – Stadler
Key note: Shrouk El-Attar – Lead Senior Electronics Engineer, Emm Technology; Belly Dancer, ‘Dancing Queer’; and refugee
Panel Discussion: ‘Diversity in engineering: barriers and why diversity is important’ – 10:40-11:20
Chaired by Ngunan Adamu – Producer/Presenter, BBC Radio Merseyside; BBC International multi-platform trainer; and Founder and CEO, iWoman Academy
Panellists:
Steena Nasapen-Watson – Regional Director, the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) North East, Yorkshire and Humber
Clare Wood – Director, Turner & Townsend
Margherita Pasquariello – Head of Strategy, NA College
Flash Talks – 11:30-12:15
Our flash talk speakers will share their thoughts and perspective on diversity in engineering.
Olivia Mclurg – Fourth Year Mechanical/Electrical Apprentice, CAT)
Laura Bartle – Electrical Engineer, Arup
Panel Discussion: ‘Innovation and Failure’ – 13:00-13:50
Chaired by Ngunan Adamu – Producer/Presenter, BBC Radio Merseyside; BBC International multi-platform trainer; and Founder and CEO, iWoman Academy
Panellists:
Tina Catling – Director of Innovation, Morgan Sindall Infrastructure
Matt Boyle OBE – Chair of Trustees, The Common Room and Professor of Practice, Newcastle University Engineering Faculty
Meshi Taka – Associate Director, Waterman Aspen and North East Fairness, Inclusion and Respect Lead, The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) North East
Flash Talks – 14:00-14:45
Our flash talk speakers will share their thoughts and perspective on diversity in engineering.
Eden McGlen – Engineering Tutor Assessor at UNIPRES (UK) LIMITED
Yewande Akinola MBE – Engineering Designer; Innovator; and Visiting Professor at the University of Westminster
‘Reflections on the day, and how we can inspire future generations’ – 14:50-15:30
Chaired by Ngunan Adamu – Producer/Presenter, BBC Radio Merseyside; BBC International multi-platform trainer; and Founder and CEO, iWoman Academy
Panellists:
Shrouk El-Attar – Lead Senior Electronics Engineer, Emm Technology; Belly Dancer, ‘Dancing Queer’; and refugee
Krystina Pearson-Rampeearee – Senior Flight Systems Engineer, BAE Systems
Asiya Jelani – Account Director, The Future of Transport (TFT)
Laura Hoang – Senior Human Factors Engineering Consultant, ERM
Kim Smith – Regional Lead for Education & Enterprise, the North East Local Enterprise Partnership
About The Face of Engineering Festival
Did you know that a 2020 EngineeringUK survey (Labour Force Survey Q3 2020) showed that only 14.5% of those working in engineering are female? Here at The Common Room, we are incredibly passionate about supporting a diverse future workforce in the engineering and wider STEM sectors, to see our society better-reflected in the industries, and the products, buildings and spaces they develop.
The Face of Engineering Festival will challenge stereotypes of who an engineer is, celebrate and drive greater representation in the engineering workforce for women, people of colour and LGBTQ+ people, and bring together young people and families to inspire the next generation of innovators and engineers.
We invite everyone from industry professionals to families to join us across 3 days of activity from 7 – 9 April, as we host an Industry Conference, Schools Day and Families Day, led by a range of inspiring women and engineers of colour. To find out more, click here.

The Face of Engineering Festival follows on from our podcast series of the same name, hosted by BBC Radio Presenter, Ngunan Adamu. The podcast series celebrated a group of thirteen inspirational female engineers, working across a number of engineering disciplines. Each episode shines a light on the women’s experiences of engineering and innovation – showcasing and championing the important role women play in engineering and STEM careers. Click here to listen to the podcast on our website, or you can find it across streaming platforms, including Spotify.

#TheFaceOfEngineering Festival has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Players (National Lottery Heritage Fund), plus our supporters The Reece Foundation, NA College, The Platten Family Fund (via Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland), Stadler, Nexus, Turner & Townsend, EngineeringUK, Crowne Plaza Newcastle – Stephenson Quarter, North East Local Enterprise Partnership, and Women in Transport.

The Face of Engineering Festival - Industry Conference
2022-04-07 09:30 - 15:30 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join us for a day-long conference, celebrating the diverse faces in engineering, and driving action around the recruitment and retention of women, LGBTQ+ people, and people of colour in the industry.
We will hear from a range of inspiring engineers via a number of panels, and optional workshops and talks. The conference is open to all, from those working in any engineering discipline, to students and academics, to educators, to those who are just passionate about changing the current face of engineering.
Delegates are welcome to join us for all, or part of the day. We will also be live streaming this event for those who cannot attend in person – to register to access the live stream, click here.
Booking information
Date: Thursday 7th April
Time: 9:30am – 3:30pm
Each person attending in-person must have their own ticket.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
Lunch will be provided for all delegates on the day.
What’s happening
Welcomes and key note – 10:00-10:40
Welcome from Liz Mayes – Chief Executive, The Common Room
Welcome from Ngunan Adamu – Producer/Presenter, BBC Radio Merseyside; BBC International multi-platform trainer; and Founder and CEO, iWoman Academy
Sponsor welcome: Paul Patrick – Stadler
Key note: Shrouk El-Attar – Lead Senior Electronics Engineer, Emm Technology; Belly Dancer, ‘Dancing Queer’; and refugee
Panel Discussion: ‘Diversity in engineering: barriers and why diversity is important’ – 10:40-11:20
Chaired by Ngunan Adamu – Producer/Presenter, BBC Radio Merseyside; BBC International multi-platform trainer; and Founder and CEO, iWoman Academy
Panellists:
Steena Nasapen-Watson – Regional Director, the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) North East, Yorkshire and Humber
Clare Wood – Director, Turner & Townsend
Margherita Pasquariello – Head of Strategy, NA College
Breakout Sessions – 11:30-12:15
Delegates can choose to attend one of the three following sessions:
‘Motherhood and Engineering’ workshop
Host: Liz Mayes – Chief Executive, The Common Room
Facilitators:
Krystina Pearson-Rampeearee – Senior Flight Systems Engineer, BAE Systems
Yewande Akinola MBE – Engineering Designer; Innovator; and Visiting Professor at the University of Westminster
Meshi Taka – Associate Director, Waterman Aspen and North East Fairness, Inclusion and Respect Lead, The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) North East
‘Inspiring, securing and maintaining diverse talent pipelines’ workshop
Host: Emily Tench – Programme and Engagement Manager, The Common Room
Facilitators:
Steena Nasapen-Watson – Regional Director, the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) North East, Yorkshire and Humber
Neil Willis – Regional Lead for Education Challenge, the North East Local Enterprise Partnership
Margherita Pasquariello – Head of Strategy, NA College (afternoon breakout session only)
Flash Talks
Our flash talk speakers will share their thoughts and perspective on diversity in engineering.
Olivia Mclurg – Fourth Year Mechanical/Electrical Apprentice, CAT)
Laura Bartle – Electrical Engineer, Arup
Panel Discussion: ‘Innovation and Failure’ – 13:00-13:50
Chaired by Ngunan Adamu – Producer/Presenter, BBC Radio Merseyside; BBC International multi-platform trainer; and Founder and CEO, iWoman Academy
Panellists:
Tina Catling – Director of Innovation, Morgan Sindall Infrastructure
Matt Boyle OBE – Chair of Trustees, The Common Room and Professor of Practice, Newcastle University Engineering Faculty
Meshi Taka – Associate Director, Waterman Aspen and North East Fairness, Inclusion and Respect Lead, The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) North East
Breakout Sessions – 14:00-14:45
Delegates can choose to attend one of the three following sessions:
‘Motherhood and Engineering’ workshop
See above.
‘Inspiring, securing and maintaining diverse talent pipelines’ workshop
See above.
Flash Talks
Session 2 speakers:
Eden McGlen – Engineering Tutor Assessor at UNIPRES (UK) LIMITED
Yewande Akinola MBE – Engineering Designer; Innovator; and Visiting Professor at the University of Westminster
Panel Discussion: ‘Reflections on the day, and how we can inspire future generations’ – 14:50-15:30
Chaired by Ngunan Adamu – Producer/Presenter, BBC Radio Merseyside; BBC International multi-platform trainer; and Founder and CEO, iWoman Academy
Panellists:
Shrouk El-Attar – Lead Senior Electronics Engineer, Emm Technology; Belly Dancer, ‘Dancing Queer’; and refugee
Krystina Pearson-Rampeearee – Senior Flight Systems Engineer, BAE Systems
Asiya Jelani – Account Director, The Future of Transport (TFT)
Laura Hoang – Senior Human Factors Engineering Consultant, ERM
Kim Smith – Regional Lead for Education & Enterprise, the North East Local Enterprise Partnership
Additional information
Location: The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Attendees will be encouraged to wear a face covering (unless they have a medical exemption) where possible. We would appreciate it if attendees could complete a lateral flow test prior to attending, and we kindly ask you do not attend if you have had a positive test result for COVID-19, or are experiencing symptoms. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please email lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
About The Face of Engineering Festival
Did you know that a 2020 EngineeringUK survey (Labour Force Survey Q3 2020) showed that only 14.5% of those working in engineering are female? Here at The Common Room, we are incredibly passionate about supporting a diverse future workforce in the engineering and wider STEM sectors, to see our society better reflected in the industries, and the products, buildings and spaces they develop.
The Face of Engineering Festival will challenge stereotypes of who an engineer is, celebrate and drive greater representation in the engineering workforce for women, people of colour and LGBTQ+ people, and bring together young people and families to inspire the next generation of innovators and engineers.
We invite everyone from industry professionals to families to join us across 3 days of activity from 7 – 9 April, as we host an Industry Conference, Schools Day and Families Day, led by a range of inspiring women and engineers of colour. To find out more, click here.

The Face of Engineering Festival follows on from our podcast series of the same name, hosted by BBC Radio Presenter, Ngunan Adamu. The podcast series celebrated a group of thirteen inspirational female engineers, working across a number of engineering disciplines. Each episode shines a light on the women’s experiences of engineering and innovation – showcasing and championing the important role women play in engineering and STEM careers. Click here to listen to the podcast on our website, or you can find it across streaming platforms, including Spotify.
#TheFaceOfEngineering Festival has been made possible thanks to National Lottery Players (National Lottery Heritage Fund), plus our supporters The Reece Foundation, NA College, The Platten Family Fund (via Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland), Stadler, Nexus, Turner & Townsend, EngineeringUK, Crowne Plaza Newcastle – Stephenson Quarter, North East Local Enterprise Partnership, and Women in Transport.

Metro Memories Community Events
2022-03-25 08:00 - 17:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
These free events are designed to trigger your memories of anything and everything related to the Metro system so we can add to the community history content of the Nexus archive. Dr Kath Smith and her team of memory collectors from Remembering the Past, Resourcing the Future will start off each session by sharing a selection of the amazing photographs that have been taken and films that that have been made since Metro began to run. We’re sure that this wonderful material will get some conversations going.
There’s something for everyone at these informal events. Current and retired Metro staff, their families and friends are especially welcome. After all, it’ll be your memories that add the human touch to the facts and figures about Metro!

Timetable:
Wednesday 20th April 1.00 – 3.00
Travelling on Metro: To start us off we’ll be exploring what difference Metro has made in our lives. It could be an easier journey to work, more opportunities to see a show or even take part in the Great North Run! What is your earliest memory of using Metro? Have you kept your first ticket? Were you one of the first travellers? Come along and share your stories with Kath and her team.

Wednesday 27th April 1.00pm – 3.00pm
Constructing Metro: We want to hear more about what it was like to build the Metro system. Were you involved in building the stations, digging the tunnels, laying the tracks, testing the trains? If so we’d love to meet you and hear your stories.

Saturday 30th April 1.00 – 3.00pm
Working on Metro: We want to fill in some gaps in our knowledge about what it’s like to work on Metro, not just on the trains but in the stations, the workshops and all the other behind the scenes roles. Come along and share your stories with Kath and her team.

Wednesday 4th May 1.00pm – 3.00pm
Working on Metro: Another chance to fill in some gaps in our knowledge and hear more about what it’s like to work on Metro, not just on the trains but in the stations, the workshops and all the other behind the scenes roles. Come along and share your stories with Kath and her team.

About Remembering the Past:
Remembering the Past, Resourcing the Future holds one of the longest-established digital archives of local history anywhere in the UK, gathering local people’s stories, photos and memories to add to their online archive, which can be viewed at www.rememberingthepast.co.uk
In summer 2021 Remembering the Past, Resourcing the Future received the prestigious Queens Award for Volunteering, the MBE for volunteer groups, for their ongoing work. The team are proud to be part of the consortium of organisations which has produced the Metro Memories exhibition and events.

National Lottery Open Week - Special Building and Collections Tour
2022-03-23, 2022-03-22 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
This National Lottery Open Week, The Common Room invites National Lottery Players on a special tour of our building and collections!

About this event

This National Lottery Open Week, The Common Room invites National Lottery Players on a special tour of our building, including an insight into our collections as well as a peek into the Arbitration Room – a historic space usually not available for public view. The tours are led by our friends at Newcastle City Guides.
The Common Room is a venue and charity located in Newcastle upon Tyne. Built between 1869-1872, our building has been home to the North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers ever since. Some of the region’s greatest pioneering minds like Robert Stephenson, Lord Armstrong and Nicholas Wood met here to invent, innovate and campaign for improved safety in the mines, to protect miners, and advise mine owners.
Inside the building lies centuries of history relating to the Great Northern Coalfield, full of tales of engineering excellence and innovation. Our archive and collections span centuries of engineering, geological, mining and wider scientific history, starting from the Industrial Revolution.
Tour dates
Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday 23rd March 2022
Tour times
10:00am – 11:30am
12:00pm – 1:30pm
1:30pm – 3:00pm
We have a number of additional offers for National Lottery Open Week, including 25% off for National Lottery Players in our cafe/bar 5|Quarter. To see all of our offers, click here.
Important booking information
You must be able to produce proof of purchase of a National Lottery game upon attendance – this can be a hard copy ticket or digital. The date of draw / purchase is not relevant.
The ticket or scratchcard holder, plus one accompanying adult and any accompanying children under 16 may attend these tours.
*Everyone in your party must have their own tour ticket, booked in advance of the tour.*
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
If you can no longer attend your slot, we kindly ask that you cancel your ticket so someone else may take your place, as demand is very high. Donations can be refunded upon request if you need to cancel your ticket.
Additional information
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Attendees will be encouraged to wear a face covering (unless they have a medical exemption) where possible. We would appreciate it if attendees could complete a lateral flow test prior to attending, and we kindly ask you do not attend if you have had a positive test result for COVID-19, or are experiencing symptoms. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please email lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
About National Lottery Open Week
Since 1994, more than £45 billion has been raised for good causes. Due to this support, good cause projects in the arts, community, film heritage and sport are able to make a huge difference in their local communities.
For making their work possible, National Lottery funded projects across the UK want to say #ThanksToYou to the National Lottery players by offering free entry or other special offers this National Lottery Open Week!
Between 19-27 March 2022, anyone who presents a National Lottery ticket or scratchcard (digital or physical) will be able to access these special offers.

International Women's Day with COCO
2022-03-08 17:30 - 20:00 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
International Women’s Day is a global holiday celebrated annually on 8th March to commemorate the cultural, political, and socioeconomic achievements of women.
Join COCO, and a diverse and exciting panel of speakers to hear about current issues facing women in the UK, East Africa and beyond, and share positive messages and ideas to empower each other and future generations.
Event Details
Arrive from 5:30pm for a drinks reception and networking ahead of a panel discussion and Q&A with the speakers below, centred around the 2022 International Women’s Day theme of ‘Break the Bias’.
The evening will end with more networking and drinks in our café bar, 5|Quarter.
​Speakers

Imogen Horrocks – Co-founder of The Last Taboo, an organisation aiming to tackle the issue of sexual violence within UK Universities through awareness raising and policy change.

Chantal Herbert – Audio Producer, DJ and events organiser. Founder/Director of Sister Shack, feminist led Community Interest Company (CIC) that focuses on working with and promoting women and non-binary entrepreneurs, creatives, artists, musicians and DJs.

Margherita Pasquariello – Head Of Strategy at NA College. Margherita is responsible for the strategic management of the college and is shaping the future education pathway under the Institute of Technology footprint.

Jess Whitaker – COCO Programmes Manager. Jess works with partner organisations in East Africa to plan, develop and implement sustainable development programmes within the remote communities that they work.

Date
Tuesday 8th March 2022
Time
5:30pm – 8:00pm
Booking information
This event is free to attend, but advance booking is required. Click the ‘get tickets’ button or above, or visit COCO’s website to book your tickets.
Additional information
Location: The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
About COCO
COCO provides sustainable sources of quality education to children living in poor and marginalised communities. We believe that education gives children the best possible opportunity to break the cycle of poverty. We do this through our Schools for Life programme.
COCO’s vision is a world where every child, everywhere has access to quality education. COCO believes that education provides children with the best possible chance of breaking the cycle of poverty.
COCO was founded by Steve Cram CBE and British Army Major Jim Panton in 2000. Since then, the charity has raised over £5 million to fund small, sustainable, community-led initiatives. COCO and its partners have now undertaken 66 transformational programmes in 16 countries, positively impacting the lives of over 200,000 people.
COCO is currently operating in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, in East Africa to support remote communities in developing sustainable, quality schools. Our Schools for Life programme incorporates six core elements: Shelter, Power, Food, Water and Sanitation, Sport and Recreation, and Entrepreneurship. This model provides marginalised children with the skills and knowledge to experience a brighter future and lift themselves and their families out of poverty.

School of Rocks (workshop)
2022-02-26, 2022-02-25, 2022-02-24, 2022-02-22 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Event Details

Learn the reason and rhyme of rocks and get hands-on with all kinds of samples from our treasure trove of minerals! This interactive workshop allows children to learn a range of geological skills through games and activities, to become a certified rock star!
Workshop lasts approximately 45 minutes.
Recommended ages 5+.
This ticket includes general admission to explore our historic building, as well as our key exhibitions, including The Neville Hall LEGO® Model and The Mineral Wealth of the North.
Dates
Tuesday 22nd, Thursday 24th, Friday 25th and Saturday 26th February 2022
Available workshop times
Workshop 1: 11:15
Workshop 2: 14:15
Booking information
Each person attending, including adults accompanying children, must have their own ticket.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
If you can no longer attend your slot, we kindly ask that you cancel your ticket so someone else may take your place, as demand is very high. Donations can be refunded upon request, if you need to cancel your ticket.
Additional information
Location: Map Room, First Floor, The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
All visitors over the age of 16 may be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Visitors will be encouraged to wear a face-covering (unless they have a medical exemption) and to practice social distancing. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please visit our home page.

LEGO® Mini Model Workshops
2022-02-26, 2022-02-25, 2022-02-22 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Event details
Join us this February Half Term at The Common Room, to build your very own mini LEGO® model of some of the North East’s greatest engineering feats, or a Mars research robot.
Suitable for ages 5+
Models you can build:
– The Swing Bridge
– Stephenson’s Rocket
– The Electric Car
– The Geordie Lamp
– Wind Turbine
– The Perseverance rover
– The Ingenuity helicopter drone
This ticket includes general admission to explore our historic building, as well as our key exhibitions, including The Neville Hall LEGO® Model and The Mineral Wealth of the North.
Dates
Tuesday 22nd, Friday 25th and Saturday 26th February 2022
Workshop times
Workshop 1: 10:00 – 11:00
Workshop 2: 11:30 – 12:30
Workshop 3: 13:30 – 14:30
Workshop 4: 15:00 – 16:00
Booking information
Each person attending, including adults accompanying children, must have their own ticket.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
If you can no longer attend your slot, we kindly ask that you cancel your ticket so someone else may take your place, as demand is very high. Donations can be refunded upon request, if you need to cancel your ticket.
Additional information
Location: Stephenson Room, First Floor, The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
All visitors over the age of 16 may be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Visitors will be encouraged to wear a face-covering (unless they have a medical exemption) and to practice social distancing. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please visit our home page: thecommonroom.org.uk

Do It the Safety Way! (Live history and science show)
2022-02-25, 2022-02-24, 2022-02-22 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join us at The Common Room and discover how to protect yourself from the deadly dangers of the mine!

Event details

Our all-new science and heritage show explores the deadly dangers of the dark underground. Learn how to keep yourself unpoisoned, unsuffocated and unexploded from the perils of the pit, with our live demonstrations and artefacts from our archive!
Show lasts approximately 45 minutes – 1 hour.
Recommended ages 5+, however younger children are welcome.
Dates
Tuesday 22nd, Thursday 24th, Friday 25th February 2022
Available show times
Morning show: 10:00
Afternoon show: 13:00
Booking information
Each person attending, including adults accompanying children, must have their own ticket.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
If you can no longer attend your slot, we kindly ask that you cancel your ticket so someone else may take your place, as demand is very high. Donations can be refunded upon request, if you need to cancel your ticket.
Additional information
Location: Lecture Theatre, The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
All visitors over the age of 16 may be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Visitors will be encouraged to wear a face-covering (unless they have a medical exemption) and to practice social distancing. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please visit our home page.
To stay up to date with what’s on at The Common Room, click here to sign up to our newsletter.

The Common Room Heritage Tours
2022-02-21 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Event details
Join us and Newcastle City Guides for a unique tour of The Common Room (formerly known to many as the Mining Institute). Our building has been the home to The North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers since 1872; a membership organisation affiliated with some of the 19th century’s most eminent engineers. Inside the building lies centuries of history relating to the Great Northern Coalfield, full of tales of engineering excellence and innovation.
This ticket includes general admission to explore our historic building unguided too, as well as our key exhibitions, including The Neville Hall LEGO® Model and The Mineral Wealth of the North.
Booking information
Each person attending, including children, must have their own ticket.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
If you can no longer attend your slot, we kindly ask that you cancel your ticket so someone else may take your place, as demand is very high. Donations can be refunded upon request, if you need to cancel your ticket.
Dates
Saturday 5th and Monday 21st February 2022
Tour times
10:00-11:00, 11:00-12:00, 13:00-14:00, 14:00-15:00, 15:00-16:00
Additional information
Location: The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
All visitors over the age of 16 may be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.

The Common Room Heritage Tours
2022-02-05 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Event details
Join us and Newcastle City Guides for a unique tour of The Common Room (formerly known to many as the Mining Institute). Our building has been the home to The North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers since 1872; a membership organisation affiliated with some of the 19th century’s most eminent engineers. Inside the building lies centuries of history relating to the Great Northern Coalfield, full of tales of engineering excellence and innovation.
Booking information
Each person attending, including children, must have their own ticket.
Tickets are free, but if you would like to make a small donation to support the charitable work of The Common Room, it would be hugely appreciated.
If you can no longer attend your slot, we kindly ask that you cancel your ticket so someone else may take your place, as demand is very high. Donations can be refunded upon request, if you need to cancel your ticket.
Dates
Saturday 5th and Monday 21st February 2022
Tour times
10:00-11:00, 11:00-12:00, 13:00-14:00, 14:00-15:00, 15:00-16:00
Additional information
Location: The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
All visitors over the age of 16 may be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.

The Polar Express - The Common Room Christmas Movie Showings
2021-12-24 12:00 - 14:30 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join us for a hot chocolate and a portion of popcorn as we screen The Polar Express in our Lecture Theatre.

About this event

Join us for a hot chocolate and a portion of popcorn as we screen your festive favourite films this December!
Date: Friday 24th December 2021
Film: The Polar Express
Doors: 12:00
Film starts: 12:30

Booking information
Price: £9.50 per ticket per person
Each ticket provides one hot chocolate and one portion of popcorn for one person. All attendees, including children, require their own individual ticket.
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Location: Lecture Theatre, The Common Room, Neville Hall, Westgate Road, NE1 1SE
COVID-19 Information
We kindly ask visitors to wear a face mask/covering when not eating/drinking if you are able and to practice social distancing where possible.
Please note, parties will be seated together, socially distanced from others.
We encourage visitors to complete a Lateral Flow Test before attending and to not attend if you have a positive result. We also ask visitors to not attend if you have symptoms of Covid-19 and have not received a negative PCR test result. If you have been advised to self-isolate, please do not attend If you can longer attend, please contact melissa.forster@thecommonroom.org.uk who can assist with refunds where valid.
Visitors may be asked to provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room for contact-tracing purposes. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival, and ‘check-in’ using our NHS QR code.
Hand sanitiser is available across the building, and we encourage visitors to use this alongside regular handwashing.
Accessibility
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact melissa.forster@thecommonroom.org.uk

The Common Room Heritage Tours
2021-12-06 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join our FREE heritage tours of The Common Room and explore the history of The North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers.
About This Event
Join us and Newcastle City Guides for a unique tour of The Common Room (formerly known to many as the Mining Institute). Our building has been the home to The North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers since 1872; a membership organisation affiliated with some of the 19th century’s most eminent engineers. Inside the building lies centuries of history relating to the Great Northern Coalfield, full of tales of engineering excellence and innovation.
Tickets are free but booking is required. 20 slots are available per tour, but tour groups will be divided into 2 groups of 10. We will try our best to ensure that your party is not separated, but please note that we may on some occasions have to split parties.
**If you can no longer attend your slot, we kindly ask that you cancel your ticket so someone else may take your place, as demand is very high**
Event Timings
Monday 6th December
Available tour times: 10:00, 11:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00.
Additional information
Location: The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
In line with updated government advice, all visitors over the age of 16 will be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Visitors will be required to wear a face-covering (unless they have a medical exemption) and to practice social distancing. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please visit our home page: thecommonroom.org.uk

The Common Room Heritage Tours (29 October, 6 November)
2021-11-06 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join our FREE heritage tours of The Common Room and explore the history of The North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers.

About this event

Join us and Newcastle City Guides for a unique tour of The Common Room (formerly known to many as the Mining Institute). Our building has been the home to The North of England Institute of Mining and Mechanical Engineers since 1872; a membership organisation affiliated with some of the 19th century’s most eminent engineers. Inside the building lies centuries of history relating to the Great Northern Coalfield, full of tales of engineering excellence and innovation.
Tickets are free but booking is required. 16 slots are available per tour, but tour groups will be divided into 2 groups of 8. We will try our best to ensure that your party is not separated, but please note that we may on some occasions have to split parties.
**If you can no longer attend your slot, we kindly ask that you cancel your ticket so someone else may take your place, as demand is very high**
Event Timings
Friday 29th October and Saturday 6th November
Available tour times: 10:0o, 11:00 (6 Nov only), 13:00, 14:00, 15:00
Additional information
Location: The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
In line with updated government advice, all visitors over the age of 16 will be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Visitors will be required to wear a face-covering (unless they have a medical exemption) and to practice social distancing. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please visit our home page: www.thecommonroom.org.uk

LEGO® Mini Model Workshops (28, 29, 30 October)
2021-10-29 - 2021-10-30 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
This ticket includes general admission to explore our historic building and key exhibitions, including The Neville Hall LEGO® Model and Digging Deep: Coal Miners of African Caribbean Heritage & The North East. In line with our Covid Safety Statement, if you intend to visit as part of a group, please ensure one person in your party books all tickets. Visitors may need to queue at various points in the building to ensure social distance can be maintained in exhibitions, workshops and events.
About this event
Join us this October Half Term at The Common Room, to build your very own mini LEGO® model of some of the North East’s greatest engineering feats, or a Mars research robot.
Models you can build are:
– The Swing Bridge
– Stephenson’s Rocket
– The Electric Car
– The Geordie Lamp
– Wind Turbine
– The Perseverance rover
– The Ingenuity helicopter drone

Event Timings

Dates: 28th, 29th and 30th October 2021
Workshop Times: 10:00 – 11:00, 11:30 – 12:30, 13:30 – 14:30, 15:00 – 16:00

Booking information
Tickets are free for these workshops but booking is required, as capacity is capped at 20 people per workshop. Please note, adults accompanying children will also require their own ticket.

Additional information
Location: Map Room, First Floor, The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
In line with updated government advice, all visitors over the age of 16 will be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Visitors will be required to wear a face-covering (unless they have a medical exemption) and to practice 2m social distancing. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please visit our home page: www.thecommonroom.org.uk

The Rock Showman presents: Volcanoes are Oresome! (23, 25, 26 October)
2021-10-26 | The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SE, United Kingdom
Join The Common Room, The Rock Showman and Floss for an oresome volcanic journey back in time!
This ticket includes general admission to explore our historic building and key exhibitions, including The Neville Hall LEGO® Model and Digging Deep: Coal Miners of African Caribbean Heritage & The North East. In line with our Covid Safety Statement, if you intend to visit as part of a group, please ensure one person in your party books all tickets. Visitors may need to queue at various points in the building to ensure social distance can be maintained in exhibitions, workshops and events.
The Rock Showman presents: Volcanoes are Oresome!
2021 has been an exciting year for volcanism as our dynamic planet circulates heat whilst land is both created and destroyed. North East England has no active volcanoes now, but our backyard tells us that things weren’t always as cool and quiet. What can we learn from modern eruptions that tell us about the ancient landscapes of the British Isles? Why were many of the shiny crystals of the North Pennines so valuable? Could we power our future from volcanoes? Join Floss and The Rock Showman for an oresome volcanic journey back in time.
Extra Feature
The Rock Showman welcomes you to bring something special from your collection of rocks, minerals or fossils to the The Common Room.
Do you want to know the geological story of your pebble? Or perhaps want a fossil identified! Bring your piece along and ask an expert!
Event Timings
Dates: Saturday 23rd, Monday 25th and Tuesday 26th October
Showtimes: 11:00am – 11:45am, 2:00pm – 2:45pm
Booking information
Tickets are free for this performance but booking is required, as capacity is limited. Please note, adults accompanying children will also require their own ticket. In line with our Covid Safety Statement, if you intend to visit as part of a group, please ensure one person in your party books all tickets.

For more info on the Rock Showman
www.rockshowman.co
https://linktr.ee/stevecousins
Additional information
Location: Lecture Theatre, Ground Floor, The Common Room, Westgate Road, Newcastle NE1 1SE
Children must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.
Guests may be allocated seats sat in bubbles.
Our building is fully accessible – if you have any queries about accessibility, please contact lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk
In line with updated government advice, all visitors over the age of 16 will be asked to scan the NHS QR code or provide their name and contact details on arrival at The Common Room. Smartphone users can download the NHS COVID-19 app before arrival.
The Common Room is taking a number of precautions to mitigate the risk to the public regarding COVID-19. Visitors will be required to wear a face-covering (unless they have a medical exemption) and to practice social distancing. For further information on our COVID-19 protocol please visit our home page: www.thecommonroom.org.uk

'What’s Beneath Our Feet?' Workshop for Home-Ed Groups at The Sill
2021-10-19 | The Sill, National Landscape Discovery Centre, Bardon Mill, Hexham, Northumberland, NE47 7AN, United Kingdom
Home-educated young people studying at Key Stage 2 level, and their guardians, are invited to join The Common Room team at The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre, for a workshop which explores rocks, fossils and scientific investigation.
About this event
Mining is dangerous work, with perils always waiting beyond the next strike of a pickaxe. Safely finding your way underground as you dig means being able to read hundreds of millions of years of the Earth’s history from the minerals around you. The Common Room and the Mining Institute (NEIMME) have a history of sharing this knowledge and making underground exploration safe.
Our ‘What’s Beneath Our Feet?’ workshop links to parts of the National Curriculum relating to rocks and fossils and scientific investigation. Throughout the workshop, young people are encouraged to develop their scientific skills as they explore and get hands-on with coal, strata (the layers underneath our feet) and geology specimens from The Common Room’s collection, as well as linking to the North of England’s rich mining heritage.
Groups will also be able to visit The Common Room’s Graft & Glory exhibition (currently at The Sill) before or after their workshop.
Graft & Glory tells the story of our region’s engineers. They invented, innovated and campaigned to make mining safer, not only in the North East, but also around the world. It is the story of our region’s graft and glory: our responses to challenges facing industry, past, present and future.
Event Timings
Date: Tuesday 19th October 2021
Time: 12:30pm
Workshop lasts no longer than 90 minutes
Booking information
To book your free tickets, please email lucy.stockdale@thecommonroom.org.uk with the number of tickets you require.
These workshops are for are ideally suited to those studying at Key Stage 2 level.
Home Education groups: As capacity is limited due to social distancing measures, we kindly ask you to limit the number of adults and infants attending with your party if possible and practical. Please ensure you book a ticket for everyone in your party, not just children.
Additional information
The Northumberland National Park Authority is following current government guidelines. Given the high levels of Covid infection in our region, and the impact on staffing through the need for some to self-isolate, they are having to review their services and Covid provisions on an ongoing basis. Please check The Sill’s website for further updated information ahead of your visit.
About The Sill
The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre is a hub for the rural economy; a laboratory; centre and base for education from primary to tertiary level; a driver for the Northumberland economy; a celebration and a reminder of the importance of landscape in understanding who we are as a nation, and a place to emphasise the importance of its care. Their vision is to transform how people connect with landscape and to inspire a new generation and generations to come.
