In this Outstanding Teaching, Learning and Assessment (OTLA) project 2017/18, South Tyneside Council, Community First North East, and AutismAble, evaluated their initial and diagnostic assessment tools and approaches, in order to identify those that were ineffective and develop processes better tailored to individual needs. Once underway, the project focused more on learner impact and making better use of assessment outcomes, particularly embedding maths and English in vocational subjects. Activities included provider self-assessment and peer review against the 'National Effective Practice Guidelines'; research with learners on the impact of assessment; staff training; and regular sharing of effective practice. Outcomes included ‘Good Practice Guidelines’ for tutors' induction and a learner-centred ‘baseline assessment’ for learners with autism.