On the eve of the Eurovision Song Contest final, as Malta awaited impatiently for Miriana Conte’s performance, local students celebrated their personal win in a school version of the popular contest.
St Nicholas College, Mġarr Primary School placed fifth out of 24 European schools that took part in Schoolovision 2025. The annual event forms part of the eTwinning network, an EU-supported platform that promotes international collaboration between schools through digital projects, cultural exchange and innovative learning.
The local entry, titled If, written by Maria Antoinette Magro and composed by John Anthony Fsadni, is a joyful exploration of some of life’s most curious ‘what ifs’.
“What if a song could connect classrooms across Europe − not with rules or lessons, but through imagination?,” Magro, a teacher at Mġarr primary, muses.
“At its heart, If is a celebration of wonder and curiosity. It doesn’t just ask questions − it invites the listener to dream, explore and reflect on their own hopes and fantasies. From picturing a giraffe in a photograph to wondering if you could touch the sky with a tie, the song exudes playful charm and childlike freedom.”
Some lines inevitably elicit smiles.
“If you could live in a cartoon, would you want to travel to the moon on a spoon?”
“If you could live under the sea, would you make a cup of tea?”
The chorus, on the other hand, carries a warm, universal message, reminding every child of their potential:
“If all your wishes come true, you’ll be happy and never feel blue, you’ll always be true.”
While other lyrics reflect children’s dreams and hopes.
“If you had no electricity, would you grab the opportunity: Teach the squirrels how to talk, play with nature round the clock?”
Musically, the song matches its lyrical whimsy. With breezy melodies and uplifting rhythms, If delivers an atmosphere of lightness and joy.
“The music combines the simplicity of the melody with a Brazilian rhythm in the background, as well as some synthesiser sound to make it sound more modern,” Fsadni further explains.
The song, recorded at Philip Vella Studio, is accompanied by a music video shot at the school premises and Ġnejna Bay. It is directed and produced by Magro, and filmed and edited by Sebio Aquilina.
The annual European song contest sees schools across the continent writing, performing and sharing original songs.
As part of the judging process, the children are given the opportunity to view and critically assess all the video entries, allocating votes based on merit.
The children presented their votes on May 16 via video conference. Turkey placed first with the song Günaydın Çocuklar (Good Morning, Kids).
The Maltese entry stood out for its originality, energy and message of unity, earning praise from educators and peers alike.
“It’s a celebration of shared creativity and friendship. It captures everything eTwinning stands for: curiosity, collaboration and open-minded learning,” Magro says, while thanking the senior leadership team at Mġarr Primary School, friends and colleagues, her students and their parents.
She also says that more than a competition, Schoolovision fosters intercultural exchange and gives a voice to students.
“Through If, the children of Mġarr primary not only showcased their artistic talents but also reminded Europe of the power of imagination to bring people together.”