The school was established in 1989 when Thembalabantu High School could not handle the large learner numbers. This decision was made by the Department of Education which had to give up its offices in Zone 6 to accommodate the new school which became known as Xolani High School. The first principal was from Archie Velile High School and he took his position on the 22 February 1989.
The school got additional staff members in the persons of Mrs N.M.Mbityana as Head of Division from Jali High School, Mrs N.W. Mqalo also as Head of Division from Imidumashe High School. Assistant teachers were also appointed in the persons of Mrs. Tshabe from Masibambane Junior Secondary School as well as Mr. M.Mnyanda. All of these appointments were made soon after the school came into existence, in 1989. They were later followed by the appointment of Mr. M. Mtiki, Ms. L.N. Nqwelo from Ntaba ka Ndoda, Mrs. M. Dukisa from Nompendulo High School, Mr. A. Mapuza from Kamvelihle Junior Secondary School and Mr. L.L. Mbokothwana from Archie Velile High School.
During the second quarter of 1989 four more additional teachers’ positions were approved by the Department of Education. One was that of Deputy Principal subsequently filled by Mrs N.V. Besman from St Matthews High School. Mrs. B.N. Solomon also joined the school from Ntaba ka Ndoda High School and Miss N. Mzamo joined from Sisiko High School.
The school started with an enrollment of 263 learners who registered on 24 February 1989 from Thembalethu High School.
