Principals have been warned to be vigilant because of concerns over the Jump Tripping Challenge internet prank.

Kalmar Richards, the Commissioner of Education, said she was alarmed that the stunt appeared to be gaining popularity and that she did not want to see it in Bermuda.

The prank, which has attracted media attention in numerous countries, involves three students standing close together, with the one standing in the middle encouraged to jump as high as possible.

The person standing on opposite sides then kicks or pushes the jumper’s legs out from under them, causing them to fall. The jumper then loses control in the air and comes crashing down to the ground, which could result in this person hitting their head or other parts of their body.

The Department of Education noted that in the videos, some children are voluntarily participating in the challenge and others seem to be unwittingly bullied into jumping or tripping.

The Department said it had issued a warning to principals to be vigilant and to advise students that the prank “will not be tolerated and has no place in our schools”.

Ms Richards encouraged parents to speak with their children and warn them about the dangers associated with the prank and the importance of respecting their fellow students.

She said: “I’ve watched the alarming videos of this prank and sadly the challenge is gaining popularity.

“We need parents to be aware of this challenge, and students to exercise proper judgment and respect for the safety of their peers. This prank or challenge is not a trend we wish to see in Bermuda.”