With a focus upon valuing and stimulating learning, working specfically with hard-to-reach adults, the VALEX project developed a common pedagogical model for the accreditation of prior experiential learning (APEL), supporting the recognition of non-formal and informal learning across the partner countries. Reflecting upon existing APEL practices and principles, partners worked together to develop a pedagogical model based on an APEL transformative process, enabling adult learners to articulate learning and skills acquired through experience, at work or elsewhere. Local stakeholders enabled access to the target groups and subsequent piloting of the learning recognition tools. Key project outputs included practical and theoretical tutor materials and an APEL guide for learners - the VALEX Toolkit.