The South African College was founded in the city of Cape Town in 1829 primarily to address the growing need for formal education in the region. Established as a response to the demands of colonial and local populations for a structured educational system, the college aimed at providing quality education to boys in a rapidly changing society. The curriculum emphasized classical education alongside practical subjects, adapting to the socio-economic conditions of the time. As the colony expanded, the need for a more advanced education system became evident, prompting significant developments in the college's structure and offerings.

In its early years, the college was an innovative establishment compared to other institutions of the time, where education was often limited to the privileged classes. The founding of the South African College laid the groundwork for future educational reform. By the late 19th century, the college began to transition towards a more inclusive and comprehensive educational model, accommodating a wider demographic of students, which was essential for the region's development.

Eventually, internal changes and a growing demand for higher education led to the formal separation of the college into two important institutions: the University of Cape Town, which became a major center for academic excellence, and the South African College Schools, which focused on secondary education. Both institutions have since played a role in shaping the educational landscape of South Africa, producing numerous influential leaders, thinkers, and professionals in various fields.