Pupils robbed on Guatemala trip

The boys attend The Skinners' School in Tunbridge Wells

Pupils on an adventure holiday in Central America have been robbed by armed men who forced their way on to a private bus and took their belongings.

The 12 boys, aged 16, from The Skinners' School in Tunbridge Wells, Kent were on the 20th day of a four-week trip to Guatemala on Friday.

The teenagers, two teachers and an expedition leader were searched and handed over their wallets and mobiles.

Headteacher Simon Everson said pupils and staff followed their training.

The trip, which involved a jungle trek and working with local communities on building projects, was arranged through specialist school travel organiser World Challenge Expeditions.

Shocked but unharmed

"A great deal of work went in in the months prior to this trip," said Mr Everson.

"When this unexpected situation happened all the pupils and staff followed their training exactly and negotiated their way through a potentially difficult situation with a great deal of calm."

The pupils and staff were shocked, but unharmed.

A total of $4,000 (£2,000) was stolen but their passports were not taken.

Mr Everson said the British Embassy was helping the school and the group with any necessary paperwork.

He had spoken to the boys' parents and put them in touch with the hotel where they were staying, he added.

"All the reports back say they were very brave and have done us proud," he said.

"If they choose to leave Guatemala then we will get them out, but if they choose to stay on we will support them in that too."