In 1817, a priest, Marcellin Champagnat, started and ran a primary school in the village of La Valla, France.

[2] In 1889, Sacred Heart College was founded by three Marist brothers, who arrived in Johannesburg upon the Gold Rush in the neighbouring Witwatersrand.

His vision for education in South Africa ultimately led the college to ignore government order and open its doors to boys of all races.

Along with this change came the introduction of girls in 1979 as a result of the amalgamation between Yeoville Holy Family Convent and St Angela's Ursuline School.

The four main houses are: The Sacred Heart blazer is an important element of the school's history, culture and image.

This is awarded to students who have met specific criteria in several disciplines e.g. academics, sports, the performing arts, music, cultural activities (chess) etc.

Today the college's Learner Leadership Council (LLC) consists of matric students who are active members of the school and the greater community at large.

[4] As of 2020, the following sporting codes are offered at Sacred Heart College:[3] The school's extensive cultural program as of 2020 is as follows: Dance, Art, Chess, Choir, Coding, Gaming, Game Design, Mad Youth, Debating, Enviro-Club, Photography, First Aid, Marimbas, Marketing Club, Mosaic, Mandarin, Yoga, and Tai Chi.