[1] The school was founded in 1572[2] A quote from an 1857 directory: Netherthorpe School.—Francis Rodes, by will, 29th of Elizabeth, left a yearly rent charge of £20 per annum, to be taken forth of his manor of Elmton; £8 thereof to the Grammar school, at Staveley Netherthorpe, £8 for two scholarships in St. John's, Cambridge, and £4 for the relief of soldiers who should be sent to the wars out of Staveley, Barlborough, and Elmton.

Robert Sitwell, by will, 41st Elizabeth, gave a messuage in Killamarsh, on trust, to pay £6 yearly to the schoolmaster.

Lord James Cavendish, 1742, left a rent charge of £6, issuing out of closes at Hollingwood, for the maintenance of the schoolmaster.

All the sons of parishioners are considered as entitled to classical instruction; but the master makes his own charge for other branches.

[citation needed] Netherthorpe School are the current holders of the Derbyshire Debating Trophy.