A research project was undertaken to investigate the behaviour of composite CLT slabs with glulam downstands cut back from the supports. A desk study and Finite Element Modelling (FEM) were used and evaluated on their ability to model and design such a structure, focusing on the cut back location and utilising reinforcement screws. The project included full-scale laboratory testing of a composite slab to failure with innovative data collection techniques such as Particle Image Velocimetry. A similar structural element was also used in a real construction project and the investigation gave insight towards its design. It was concluded that the embedment depth of reinforcement screws in the glulam downstand is key to the performance of the composite slab with full depth penetration advisable. FEM can give useful results for stress concentrations in the timber and a simplified design method was proposed.