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From early Saturday mornings on the netball court to shaping the governance of artificial intelligence at one of the world’s leading technology companies, Laura Askey-Johnson’s journey is a testament to curiosity, resilience, and the power of people. We sat down with the Class of 2009 leaver—now leading on AI Governance at Meta and recognised as a Legal 500 Rising Star in both 2022 and 2023—to reflect on her time at Newcastle-under-Lyme School, her route into law, and the lessons she carries with her today.
For Laura, school life was defined not by a single pursuit, but by a willingness to try everything. Sport, music, and drama all played a role—but it was netball that truly stood out.
“We were fortunate enough to go to Australia on a tour and be the first NULS netball team to reach the National Schools Finals. But really, it was the Saturday mornings—the home and away games. There was such a lovely group of girls and a special group of teachers who fostered a fun and winning environment. Everything netball-related is where my favourite memories are.”
That sense of shared experience and belonging would go on to shape how she views both her career and her community.
Looking back, Laura is clear that the most important lesson she took from NULS wasn’t academic—it was relational.
“For me, the most significant lesson was the importance of relationships. There’s something special about people who went to NULS; they’re prepared to help you. They’re great sounding boards, they open doors, and those connections really stay with you throughout your life.”
It’s a belief that has come full circle in her own life:
“That’s one of the reasons why I’m keen to continue to be involved with NULS. It means a lot to me when I can help support someone’s childhood and shape their future.”
Laura’s path into law was driven by a natural affinity for analysis and debate.
“It was the ability to analyse, form an opinion, and be prepared to listen to and challenge other people’s views—all of that really appealed to me.”
However, the transition from Law School and obtaining a training contract was far from straightforward.
“I didn’t have any connections in law and I didn’t really know where to start or what would suit me. It too came at a very difficult time. Just before my AS-level exams my Dad died. I achieved my results and then, I was navigating its profound life-changing effect when I left the school safety net.”
Gaining practical experience proved to be a turning point:
“Having a permanent role after Law School helped me understand the type of legal environment I was best suited to, and gave me real examples to draw on which was the turning point for training contract applications.”
Her advice to students facing similar pressures is both practical and reassuring:
“Be patient—it will come good. You’ve worked hard to get to where you are. And try not to compare yourself to others. We live in a world of comparison and it can be exhausting, you should focus your energy on your own path.”
Today, Laura finds herself working at the cutting edge of one of the most transformative areas of modern life: artificial intelligence.
“It’s an absolute privilege to work at the forefront of AI development. I was the first hire outside of the US in Meta’s AI legal team and I’m very proud of the work we do as a team.”
In her day-to-day role, Laura “guides Meta’s responsible development and deployment of AI”
It is a position that requires both precision and adaptability—and one in which she has found a strong sense of belonging.
“I’m in a role where my skills are truly appreciated and I’m driving impact on significant matters everyday. I’m constantly being challenged to be better as I’m surrounded by exceptional talent.”
Now a parent of two, Laura is open about the realities of balancing a demanding global career with family life.
“Honestly, it’s difficult especially when managing timezones which require calls over their bath and bedtime, or when I’m supposed to be sleeping! I do my level best to establish boundaries—simple things like taking the kids to preschool/nursery when I’m home. The moment work starts to erode those boundaries, I know I need to rebalance – admittedly, sometimes I need a reminder.”
She also reflects on the importance of perspective and flexibility:
“I think being realistic in your expectations and being kind to yourself is key.”
For current students, Laura’s advice combines self-awareness with an eye on the future:
“Think about what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what the world needs. That combination should take you somewhere you want to be.”
She also encourages students to engage thoughtfully with emerging technologies:
“We’re in a period of huge transformation. AI is creating novel jobs, it will also continue to change job scope dramatically and replace other jobs. Try to understand it and use it responsibly. It’s going to be an essential part of your working life.”
Reflecting on her time at NULS, Laura speaks with a warmth that resonates across generations of Castilians:
“I’d honestly give anything to do a month back at NULS. It is a very special place. You don’t realise it at the time because you’re a child and you’re working hard but you look back and think, ‘Wow, that was quite the foundation.’”
Louis Bond: “The site of the camp was much larger than I had ever expected. Much of the camp was destroyed, but there were the cabin like structures at the front of the complex which were tiny in comparison to the number of people who were forced to stay in them. At the rear of the
Mount Pleasant, Newcastle-Under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 1DB
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