Laurence Giraud-Johnstone, graduated in English Language and Literature at the University of Jean Monnet, Saint-Etienne (France) and did the Postgraduate Certificate in Education at the former Saint Andrews College of Education, Glasgow (Merit). Taught French at the University of Regina in Saskatchewan (Canada), The University of Strathclyde, Continuing Education Department at the University of Glasgow and at the Alliance Française in Glasgow before setting up the Languages section at the former Department of Accounting, Economics and Languages at the University of the West of Scotland in 1990.
 
She was the Programme Leader for the former BA Languages Programme (ended in August 2014). She is currently the Erasmus coordinator for languages on behalf of the School of Education and the programme organiser of visiting scholars from France who have given in-depth, first-hand, up-to-date, vocationally appropriate lectures and with whom research links and scholarship activities are established.

Her main research interests are in the cultural , social, political, economical and environnemental issues in contemporary France but also improving students as lifelong learners and pedagogical aspects of language learning and teaching.

Her most recent publications dealt with assessing work placements abroad and challenges associated with outward mobility as well as evaluating the value of inward mobility within her own institution. She has also published on the impact of the 1+ 2 Languages policy with regard to delivery of the French language and culture in the Scottish Primary Education sector.  Laurence is currently undertaking doctoral studies with a view to investigate the key issues  and challenges that Scottish Education Authorities are facing with regard to language learning provision in terms of teacher and probationary teacher supply, teacher support and professional development.