The school was founded in 1711 and operated as a charity offering free education to Anglican boys and girls.

The school was created in 1711 by Robert Nelson when he established a public subscription to provide the funding.

Nelson died three years later and a building was not started until 1722, using a design by William Killigrew.

[3] Today it is possible to rent an apartment in the building which is now called Bluecoat House.

[4] The Sawclose immediately to the west of the building is a pedestrian-friendly shared space for pedestrians, cyclists and cars.