Grosvenor Girls’ High School’s history is tied to the growth of the Bluff area in Durban. A co-educational school was established in 1959, and in 1962, the current all-girls institution was formed when the boys separated to form Grosvenor High School.
The school was named after a farm on the Bluff, which itself was named after the East Indian-man Grosvenor, a ship wrecked in the area in 1782. A large brass school bell from the ship The Durban Castle was given to the school in 1962 and forms part of its tradition.
The school’s origins are linked to the pioneering settlement on the Bluff, an area that expanded rapidly.
In 1962, the existing co-educational Grosvenor school split, with the boys leaving to form Grosvenor High School, leaving the girls behind at the Grosvenor Girls’ High School.
The area and school were named Grosvenor after a farm, which was named for the East Indianman Grosvenor, a ship wrecked off the coast.
A significant part of the school’s history, a large brass bell was donated in 1962. This bell came from the ship The Durban Castle and bears marks from the war.
The bell became an important part of the school's history and traditions. When it was stolen in 2018, the school posted an appeal for its return on social media. The bell bears bullet dents from the Second World War
Throughout its history, the school has encouraged students' intellectual development, confidence, and independence. It focuses on offering a well-rounded education, emphasizing strong academics, competitive sports, and cultural enrichment.
In 2024, the school appointed its first Black principal, Yolisa Mdleleni. She was formerly the deputy principal at Brettonwood high school.
Mdleleni's vision for the school's future is centered on creating a supportive "sisterhood" for the students, while still respecting the institution's history and core values.