Mobile phones were ditched by pupils from a secondary school in favour of sun, sea and surfing during a four-day school trip.

A group of 76 Year 7 and 8 students from Epping St John’s Church of England School, in Epping, left their phones at home and spent four days in Newquay, Cornwall.

They spent their time enjoying the outdoors at Tolcarne and Swanpool beaches, taking part in activities including zorbing, volleyball, archery, beach football, kayaking, paddle boarding and surfing.

Anmarie Petrou, head of Year 7, said: “The students all just threw themselves into everything; they did so well.

“The weather was amazing and they were able to let off steam at the end of the school year. It was a nice opportunity for the two year groups to mix and to make new friends and build a bond.

“We wanted them to come away from their phones and social media and just enjoy the moment.

“It was amazing.”