The programme begins the story of ‘The Bell of Nendrum', as seen through the eyes of Nial, a young teenager who is transported back in time to 10 th century Ireland when his boat is caught up in a raging storm. Finding himself on the shores of Strangford Lough but in a different era, he is befriended by a young monk called Cailan. Curious as to his dress sense and use of modern technology Cailan tries to understand Nial's 21 st century lifestyle. Nial is then introduced to the Abbot and welcomed as a messenger of God and experiences at first hand the monastic way of life. However, despite the adventure, Nial is painfully aware of the impending disastrous consequences awaiting the Abbey's fate. Will or can the course of history be altered? Only time will tell.
 
LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of the programme pupils should be able to:

•  understand and describe the events leading to and surrounding the destruction of Nendrum Abbey
•  explore and investigate evidence of Viking activity in areas such as Strangford Lough and the Abbey at Nendrum
•  develop an understanding of Viking culture, religion and lifestyle}
•  consider the impact the Vikings had on early Christian Ireland and the legacy of their settlement with regard to archaeological evidence
•  understand the significance of the Viking contribution to our present day society and its cultural heritage
•  develop a chronological awareness and a sense of the past by contrasting life in the 10th Century to life in the 21st century
•  understand and appreciate how the course of history can be changed by peoples actions