Five teenagers were sent home from the Scottish summer camp of United Synagogue youth movement Tribe for “dangerous” and bullying behaviour.

Two had set fire to objects on Shabbat using aerosol cans and lighters. The other three were said to have engaged in bullying.

The year seven tour attracted 90 12- and 13-year-olds, who visited Edinburgh for a week-long programme including physical activities and tours of the city.

A source said “the entire group was given a lecture on bullying after a group was sent home for bad and dangerous behaviour.

“Some children broke the rules by sneaking off during Shabbat. They took aerosol cans into the woods with lighters and used them to set fire to things. Another group tried to blame another individual for getting them caught.”

David Collins, chief programmes officer for the US, said: “We take our responsibility to our participants, volunteers and staff very seriously. Incidents are very rare but when they happen they are dealt in a professional and timely manner.”

The Scottish camp was part of a diverse summer programme organised by Tribe in locations including Kent, Belgium, Israel, New York and Rwanda.