Joseph Fieldstaff-Hughes
Former Cedars student Joseph Fieldstaff-Hughes has followed a career path that proves success does not always come from having a fixed plan.After attending The Cedars Academy (formerly Longslade Community College), Joseph went on to study Mechanical Production Engineering before beginning an apprenticeship in the engineering sector. From there, his career took him through a variety of industries including engineering, utilities, consultancy and management.
Today, Joseph works as a Homologation Engineer at Nissan Test Centre Europe, where he helps ensure vehicles meet strict safety and regulatory standards before they can be sold across global markets. Alongside his engineering career, he is also a radio presenter with Leicester Community Radio, hosting a weekly show celebrating Leicester's rich dance music heritage.
Reflecting on his time at school, Joseph remembers the importance of the relationships he built and the opportunities he was given to develop as an individual.
"Understanding the values of trust, mutual respect and building a network of support was a key learning from my time at school. Through this, I made friendships that have lasted a lifetime."
Joseph also credits his experiences in sport with helping to shape his outlook.
"Through participation in school sports teams, I learned the importance of being part of a team and understanding the role you play within it. Those lessons have stayed with me throughout my career."
One lesson that has remained with him for more than three decades was a Humanities module called Politics and Pop, which explored the relationship between music, culture and society.
"That module cemented how I thought about music and helped me understand how it connects with different cultures, identities and communities. Unknown to me at the time, it was life-affirming."
Despite forging a successful career in engineering, Joseph has never lost his passion for music. In addition to his work in radio, he returns to The Cedars Academy each year to serve as Head Judge for Lionheart Educational Trust's Battle of the Bands competition, supporting young performers as they develop their confidence and talents.
When asked what advice he would give to current students, Joseph's message is simple:
"Don't worry if you haven't worked out what you want to do with your life yet. Get involved, explore what interests you, take opportunities when they come along and enjoy the friendships you make.
"Your journey might not follow the path you expect, and that's absolutely fine. Your exam results don't define your potential. Sometimes the things that shape your future are the people you meet, the interests you discover and the opportunities you're brave enough to take."
Are you a Cedars Academy alumnus? Why not share your story and inspire others?