STAFF at an Isle of Wight primary school have been asked to turn off the NHS Test and Trace app, as so many staff are self-isolating and it would prevent more getting the alert to stay at home.

The County Press contacted the Isle of Wight Council following a tip-off from a concerned member of staff at Nine Acres Primary School in Newport.

The council confirmed guidance had been given about 'pausing' the app in certain circumstances.

A spokesperson for the Isle of Wight Council said: “Nine Acres Primary School confirms that 14 members of the staffing community are currently self-isolating having been contacted by the NHS test and trace app, and two staff members have tested positive for Covid-19.

"There is no further action for the school and all year groups and classes are open to accommodate all of the vulnerable and critical worker children that require a place.

"Leaders are reporting attendance figures of about 25 per cent of students, which is within the normal distribution range we are currently seeing for primary schools on the Island.

“With regards to the test and trace app, the council has become aware of instances where individuals have been identified as close contacts and told to self-isolate when the situation has arisen because of the place the owner has left their phone unattended, such as a desk or cupboard.

"As a result of this, the local public health team have provided guidance regarding pausing the app in certain settings and situations.

“The school continues to follow all guidance from Public Health England and the Department for Education in reviewing risk assessments in place and providing both high quality remote learning for pupils at home, and continuous education for appropriate pupils in school.”

A staff member told the County Press staff had been "badgered" to stay at work, and to switch off their track and trace on their phones while they are at work.

The County Press has asked the council to clarify the specific guidance specified in the statement that the "local public health team have provided guidance regarding pausing the app in certain settings and situations".