Top 10: If you could choose a song to replace your school song, what would it be and why?
We received some intriguing suggestions, including a classic by The Rolling Stones, a Coldplay tune and even one from the Disney universe
A school anthem sets the tone for your academic life. Photo: SCMPThis week’s question is: What is a common myth you have heard about health?
To take part, drop us a line via this form or email us at [email protected] by 12pm on September 4. Tell us your name, age and school.
Athena Chan Lai-wan, 15, Pui Kiu College: I suggest “Time Waits For No One” by The Rolling Stones. The lyrics state the importance of treasuring time. This is a crucial skill for students not only in their secondary life but also in the future. By integrating the song into their daily school lives, our classmates must understand the importance of spending time wisely and making the most of their moments with friends and teachers.
Venus Hsiao Yingran, 14, STFA Leung Kau Kui College: I would pick “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from Toy Story. From the name, you can tell that the song is about friendship. Learning is not the only thing you get from school. It also allows you to make new friends. It is said that school is our second home. It is where we spend most of our time; the friends we make there are friends for life. Also, changing the school song to something related to friendship can improve the learning atmosphere, as the students will not feel nervous but more relaxed at school.
Peter Chui Pui-ling, 15, Maryknoll Fathers’ School: I will choose “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley. School songs often perpetuate stereotypes that have become rigid and outdated. Consequently, they fail to capture our attention. We desperately need a song to invigorate our dull morning assemblies, so I have selected this song. Being widely known, with a fast-paced tone and an easy-to-remember rhythm, students will be more inclined to sing along. In this regard, it will enhance the unity within the school.
If you could design a new school uniform, what would it look like?
Jasmine Chau Tsz-ching, 14, Stewards Pooi Kei College: I would choose the song “This Wish” from Disney’s Wish. This song is powerful and encouraging. It talks about seeking knowledge while being in an arduous situation. Other than this, the lyrics “So I make this wish, to have something more for us than this” could empower students to give back to society. “I’ve got reservations and hesitations” perfectly reflects the student’s situation. Still, this could encourage students to pursue their dreams.
Charis Chan, 15, Malvern College Hong Kong: It would be “Until I Found You” by Stephen Sanchez because of the meaning of the lyrics. As we know, this is a song about how love overcomes distance, time and challenges. Instead of depicting love between people, this song may also portray students’ love towards learning and school, as it may allow us to gain more knowledge and stay connected within our society no matter our cultural or financial background.
Breanne Kwok Tsz-ching, 11, Maryknoll Convent School (Primary Section): “Forever” by Babymonster would be a great option to replace my school song. To me, the lyrics of a school song should bring out one’s loyalty towards the institution, to be true to the school and never betray it. This song is about being true to one’s identity, worth, and values, refusing to be defined by anyone else, and embracing self-confidence. As the song was originally about a girl group being true to their own artistic identity, I would hope to rewrite that part of the lyrics into “I belong to this school. I don’t belong to others. I believe in my school, and I will forever be true.” I hope to keep the parts related to self-confidence and not being defined, as they are crucial to everyone’s growth.
Destini Lau, 13, STFA Leung Kau Kui College: I would replace the school song with “This Is Me’’ from The Greatest Showman. The lyrics are about embracing our true selves and being proud of who we are. The song has an inclusive and diverse perspective, celebrating people from different backgrounds or cultures, thus providing a sense of home for all the students. The song’s theme relates to students nowadays and is the kind of song that captures the hearts of everyone.
Emily Lee Cheuk-ying, 16, Carmel Secondary School: “Fix You” by Coldplay. This inspiring rock song, originally written to console a loved one suffering a bereavement, may sound weird in a school setting. However, students encounter different hurdles in life, whether academic or emotional. The song’s uplifting melody and moving lyrics will console the disheartened and infuse us with hope, fostering stronger cohesion and identity. In another interpretation, the lyrics “Lights will guide you home and ignite your bones. And I will try to fix you” may also echo our school’s philosophy of Christian education, bringing students closer to God.
Huen Ka-ching, 16, Pui Kiu College: “A Million Dreams” from the movie The Greatest Showman. To begin with, the song carries an inspiring message of dreaming big, pursuing one’s passions, and believing in oneself. It encourages students to have hope, set goals, and work hard to achieve them. It can foster a culture of ambition and personal growth within the school community.
Celina Cheng, 8, St Paul’s Co-educational College Primary School: “Live out Love”. This song teaches us there is no greater love than God’s and that we should spread love to others. Our school motto is “Faith Hope Love”, so this song fits our theme perfectly.