Forged FrameworksForging learning

Shwmae. Daniel 'Wig' Boyland · digital learning designer · learning technologist · ISO assessor and scientist by trade

Forged Frameworks is me, Dan Boyland, and the tools I built to work at the scale of a team. Curriculum, authoring, bespoke HTML, QA and compliance, LMS publishing, then the revisions and learner support that follow. Every module is built for the person who is at the screen alone, in formats that fit the content, to standards you can audit.

Email me See the work

The people it was written for have moved on. Feedback says "incorrect" and nothing else. One interaction type runs from the first screen to the last, and accessibility was assumed rather than measured. None of it fails loudly. The module still opens, and learners quietly get less from it each year.

Forged Frameworks answers that in two ways. Every module, new or rebuilt, is designed for the learner who is at the screen alone, in formats chosen by the shape of the content, to a standard someone else can audit. And where a scheme of work has to become a full document set, Catalyst drafts it, calibrated to level and sector and QA'd before an expert sees it, so the expert's time goes where only an expert can spend it.

Daniel 'Wig' Boyland

About


Instructional designer and founder of Forged Frameworks, based in Cwmbran, South Wales, working remotely across the UK. I have worked every stage of the learning-product pipeline: curriculum development, authoring in Rise 360, Storyline, Moodle and FutureLearn, bespoke coded HTML packages, QA and compliance checks, LMS publishing and management, then the revisions, updates and learner support that keep a course alive.

When the tooling did not exist, I built it: the Catalyst pipeline, the Codex block library, and the diagnostic engines that sit inside the modules. Everything is handed over editable and yours to keep.

Off the clock I am an ambassador and digital volunteer for Tidy Butt ↗, a mental-health charity in Pontypool, and a digital volunteer for IIH UK ↗.

MSc Biomedical Sciences · TAP Diploma in Learning Design · Chartered Scientist (CSci) · HCPC registered UKAS Technical and Lead Assessor, ISO 15189, 22870 and 17043 Read the full CV →
Origin story

From the lab bench to the anvil

14 years in NHS haematology, then 70-odd ISO assessments and a COVID year moving 650 days of classroom training online at UKAS taught me that a standard is only useful if people can actually learn it. So I started building the learning. Then the tools to build it faster.

The accreditation and quality story →
Off the clock

Wig's Wonky Forge

An actual forge. Hand-forged ironwork, a small craft business and the reason the metaphor on this site is not a metaphor. Also two very opinionated cats.

Wig's Wonky Forge ↗
Where

Cwmbran, South Wales

Remote by default, on-site when it matters. The Welsh will occasionally leak into the copy. Da iawn if you spotted it.

Range


Authoring tools change every few years. The instructional design, the accessibility bar and the audit trail do not. Here is the current kit.

Authoring and mediaArticulate 360 (Rise, Storyline) · SCORM · xAPI · Visme · Canva · Vyond · Descript · Camtasia
LMS and VLEMoodle · Totara · FutureLearn · SQL reporting · SCORM migration
Code and AIPython · HTML/CSS/JS · Claude Code · OpenAI Codex · OpenAI and Gemini APIs · Google Apps Script · NotebookLM
Dev and hostingGitHub repo management · web and content hosting · version control and change logs
Quality systemsQ-Pulse · iPassport · Ideagen · ISO 15189, 17025, 17043 · ISO 19011 audit
15+kinds of interactive block, ready to drop into Rise 360, Moodle or any VLE
50+interactive pieces live on the web today
12hours to produce 3 hours of learning content, one review included. It used to take 24.
~40%subject-expert time saved per module with Catalyst

Selected work

Compliance-critical modules from Level 3 to Level 6, and the interactive tooling forged alongside them.

New · Haematology CPD · Only Cells

Morphology Monthly cases

Interactive blood-film cases for students and trainees, published each month on Only Cells' own site. Designed and built by me, with SME sign-off as a morphologist.

  • Results arrive in stages that lock earlier answers
  • Feedback explains the consequence of each wrong call
  • A magnifier and markers work on real films
  • Each case ends in a CPD record and certificate

Try the October case ↗More about the build

Built with Anas Nasir, Only Cells.

36-second teaser, with music. Each step is titled on screen.
Lead case study · Level 3 · Rise 360

Asbestos Industry Technical Module

For Bulk and Analysis and Air Analyst apprentices working toward the Level 3 Laboratory Technician standard (ST0248) and RSPH qualifications. Previous training was inconsistent, with few interactive elements and no objective assessment data.

  • Fully online ITM authored to a structured framework
  • Scenario-based formative assessment aligned to the apprenticeship standard
  • Transcripts, alt text, subtitles and screen-reader compatibility from the first draft
  • Companion decision tool: the Asbestos Identification Matrix

Launch the Identification Matrix ↗Watch the tool walkthrough ▶

95%+completion across the first cohorts
Pre/postobjective knowledge-gain measures
Modeltemplate for future health and safety ITMs
Asbestos ITM in Rise 360: further reading, resources and next steps lesson Asbestos ITM: decontamination, PPE and Type-H vacuums lesson Asbestos ITM: reflection notebook guidance with downloadable PDF
Review and uplift · Level 3 NVQ to Level 6 HE · Rise 360

Dated modules, audited and rebuilt

Rise 360 products that had drifted from the people taking them: content written for a cohort that had changed, feedback that marked without teaching, one interaction type from start to finish, and accessibility that was assumed rather than measured. Each module was audited for structure, instructional design, learner journey and maintainability, then rebuilt to WCAG 2.2 and EN 301 549 with formats chosen by the shape of the content.

  • Approved copy kept word for word; the pedagogy changed around it
  • Style guides, learner-journey wayfinding and programme-voice frameworks consolidated, so the next revision starts from a standard rather than a blank page
Static to interactive · medical education

For a medical-education publisher across oncology, haematology and diabetes technology: a clinical slide deck, an approved infographic and a written storyboard each became interactive, built for the shape of the content rather than the shape of the source. Survival data became an explorer, a treatment algorithm a step-through decision tool, a patient story a case with a readiness gate and a revisit. Approved copy stayed word for word, and every piece closes on reflection the learner can keep.

100%external certification success on the redeveloped programmes
40+modules built or rebuilt, Level 3 NVQ to Level 6 HE
1,500+hours of Level 3 to Level 6 learning content built or rebuilt since September 2025
Pharma · HCP education

New-drug launch education

Interactive prescribing-guidance and patient-management learning for healthcare professionals, built for a new-drug launch.

The video, example and review page are generalised: the client's copy, data and branding are replaced to protect their intellectual property and copyright.

Bespoke HTML decision scenes, hosted · Watch how it's built ▶ · Try the example ↗ · See how a client reviews it ↗

77 seconds, no sound: the captions carry it. A generalised example: the client's copy, data and branding are replaced.
LMS · migration

Cross-platform LMS migration

Migrated a full asset library between platforms with SCORM conversion and AI-assisted metadata tagging, so nothing arrived unlabelled.

Moodle redesign · GenAI in the pipeline
Prevent Duty · Moodle

Prevent Duty module

Mandatory for Level 3, NVQ and HE apprentices. Built with transcripts, coded HTML and podcast-style retention aids.

Positive learner and Ofsted feedback · Watch the walkthrough ▶
Codex · HTML learning-asset library

Interactive blocks, handed over editable

Self-contained HTML, CSS and JS interactions that drop into Rise 360, Moodle or any VLE. Each block ships with its designer mode, so copy, scoring and branching can be changed locally with no per-edit AI cost.

Preview of a branded walkthrough player made with the Cinematic Package DesignerCinematic Package DesignerAuthoring tool · branded video player Preview of the Takeaways Revealer blockTakeaways RevealerReveal block · designer + learner Preview of the Myth vs Fact blockMyth vs FactSorting block Preview of the Microbiology swipe quizSwipe Quiz — MicrobiologySwipe quiz · Level 6 Preview of the Odd One Out quiz engineOdd One OutQuiz engine Preview of the 3D molecule viewer3D Molecule ViewerThree.js · Level 6 HE Preview of the Careers Explorer blockCareers ExplorerPathways block Preview of the Standards and Guidance PortalStandards & Guidance PortalResource hub Preview of the Reflective Notebook blockReflective NotebookJournaling block

The Catalyst pipeline

One source document in. A complete, level-calibrated, SME-ready document set out. Every stage is logged, every repair is recorded, and a human signs off before anything is published.

~40%SME time saved per module
3 layersStructural, levelling, pedagogical QA
  1. Awaiting upload
  2. Parsing documents
  3. Generating drafts
  4. QA & repair loops
  5. Levelling & consolidation
  6. Assembling frameworks
  7. Final resources & takeaways
  8. Pipeline complete
Live telemetry feedForge complete
Forging lesson script · session 1 of 8
Forging lesson script · session 2 of 8
Forging assessment pack · reflective activities · career pathways
--- Stage 3: quality assurance ---
Pedagogical QA · 2 issues · auto-repair pass 1 of 2
Structural QA · pass
US spelling detected (behavior) · corrected · tut-tutted
--- Stage 4: levelling & consolidation ---
Calibrating to Level 5 · sector: laboratory management
--- Stage 5: assembling frameworks ---
Writing Combined Framework — TAM5202.docx
--- Stage 6: final resources & takeaways ---
Final Resources — TAM5202.docx · Final Takeaways — TAM5202.docx
✔ Forge complete · 7 artefacts ready for SME review

Catalyst pipeline · a replay of a real run, module TAM5202

  1. Ingest

    Digital content plans, module narratives or schemes of work go in as they are. Structure is read from the document, with no reformatting on your side.

    --- Stage 1: parsing documents --- sessions=8 · outcomes=24 · calibration=TAM5202_sme_calibration.json

  2. Generate

    A full, aligned document set is drafted for every session from that single source. Anti-repetition memory keeps a module fresh across sessions.

    --- Stage 2: generating drafts --- lesson_script · pedagogical_qa · digital_blueprint · assessment_pack

  3. Assure

    Three QA layers, structural, levelling and pedagogical, catch issues and auto-repair them. Anything that will not repair is flagged for a human, never hidden.

    --- Stage 3: quality assurance --- issues=2 · repaired=2 · escalated=0

  4. Calibrate

    Tone, depth and professional context are levelled to the learner, Level 3 to Level 6, and to the sector domain: laboratory, engineering, digital, HE.

    --- Stage 4: levelling & consolidation --- level=5 · domain=labman · variant=vC5

  5. Publish

    Polished, branded Word outputs plus learner resources and takeaways, consistent every time and ready for SME review before the Rise 360 build.

    --- Stage 5: assembling frameworks --- Combined Framework — TAM5202.docx · Final Resources · Final Takeaways

Seven Word documents per module, branded and ready for subject-expert review. Plus the Rise 360 build they become.

  1. Lesson scriptSession-by-session teaching narrative
  2. Pedagogical QAFindings and repairs, logged
  3. Digital blueprintScreen-by-screen build plan
  4. Assessment packFormative checks mapped to outcomes
  5. Reflective activitiesMetacognition built in
  6. Further learningLive-verified onward resources
  7. Career pathwaysSector routes and standards

Built for UK regulated sectors

Before learning design came the laboratory: 14 years in NHS pathology, then over a decade as a UKAS technical assessor and training manager. Content is written to the standards the learner will be assessed against, in UK English, with UK regulators as the default reference. The full accreditation and quality background →

  • UKAS technical and lead assessor
  • ISO 15189 · 17025 · 17043
  • NHS pathology, 14 years
  • Apprenticeship standards (ST0248)
  • RQF outcomes
  • RSPH qualifications
  • IBMS · ATAC · BPF
  • RSci and RChem degree routes
  • Prevent Duty and safeguarding
  • HSE · MHRA · BSI references
  • Ofsted-reviewed modules
  • WCAG 2.2 · EN 301 549

Accessibility by default

This page is set in Atkinson Hyperlegible, with JetBrains Mono for anything technical. Sentence case throughout, no letter-spaced capitals, contrast at 4.5:1 or better, and every animation switched off when the browser asks for reduced motion. The same rules apply to every module.

  • WCAG-aligned builds with transcripts, captions and alt text
  • Alternative navigation and plain-language principles
  • Dyslexia-friendly type and high-contrast palettes
  • Published accessibility and inclusion statement (FF-AC-01)

How the background shapes the practice

All five, with the record behind them →
ISO assessment · 70+ laboratoriesEvidence before opinion

Every module carries pre- and post-assessment data, not just satisfaction scores. If a claim about learning gain cannot be shown, it is not made.

QMS governance · document and change controlIf it is not documented, it did not happen

Catalyst logs every stage, QA finding and repair. Codex blocks ship version-controlled with change logs. Any line of content traces back to its source.

650 training days moved online · clinicians to calibration engineersExpertise is not the same as clarity

Subject experts own the substance; the design carries structure, pacing and plain language. Dyslexia-friendly type, sentence case and transcripts are defaults.

All recommendations on LinkedIn ↗
Project leadership
I've had the pleasure of working with Dan on a number of projects and always admire his integrity, autonomy and trust-centric ways of working, coupled with his humility and constant drive to learn, grow, and help others do the same. Work with Dan never felt like 'work'. He has a flair for managing projects with perceived effortlessness, but there's a tremendous amount of thought and care that goes into his leadership of projects. His client and user-centric approach means he fits like a glove in whichever team he works in, and I cannot recommend him highly enough.
Vashisht Bhatt ↗Digital and productivity, commercial
Content pipeline
I've been fortunate to work with Daniel on multiple digital learning modules for a growing training provider in a fast-paced environment. During the projects, it became clear that Daniel has a strong understanding of all aspects of high-quality learning content development, including accessibility, multimedia use, pedagogy, quality assurance, curriculum alignment at both national and course levels, and the overall learner experience. Daniel developed one of the most efficient workflows I've seen in the industry and ensured everyone felt supported throughout. I'm confident that his framework-oriented approach to learning design and project management would be a tremendous asset to any Learning and Development team.
Zsolt Barath ↗Content pipeline, Level 3 specialist FE
Curriculum embedding
Dan has an incredible talent for turning complex ideas into engaging, accessible learning content that really lands with learners and employers alike. He does not just design curriculum and training, he makes sure it is embedded properly so it actually works in practice and delivers results.
Ash BackhouseProgramme Director IFLP, SECBE
Learning design
Dan is a first rate Learning Designer. He has a deep understanding of accessibility and online pedagogy. He makes really engaging, high quality content that encourage deep learning.
Paul WakelingFounder and CEO, Assynt Lead & Learn
Learning design, HE
His depth of knowledge in content and learning development is exceptional, and his ability to transform raw material into captivating, learner-friendly content and UX was second to none.
Cathy Coulthard ↗Project management, HE
Content pipeline
He has a great eye for learning design, and his project management skills keep everything running smoothly. Daniel is one of those people who makes teamwork both easy and enjoyable.
Deborah Ogbeni ↗Content pipeline, Biosciences and Level 5 Lab Management
Medical communications
In the short time we have been working with Dan across multiple projects, he has delivered great value to our team and has been a absolute joy to work with. His ideas, suggestions, and expertise, delivered in a calm and collaborative manner - have been invaluable.
Emma Lewis ↗Head of Project Management, medical communications agency

Working together

Every project is scoped to you. Rates are £50 to £60 an hour, with fixed contract rates negotiable for long-term partnerships or bundles. Agile working, iterative builds, expedited delivery by prior agreement.

Contract or interim

Join a team for a fixed term to own the learning-product pipeline end to end, from curriculum through LMS publishing.

Day rate · remote-first

Project-based studio work

A scoped module, programme or interactive tool, built in Rise 360, Storyline, Moodle or coded HTML, delivered iteratively.

Fixed scope · agreed rate

Learning-product review and uplift

For modules that have dated: content the people taking it have moved past, feedback that marks without teaching, one interaction type from start to finish. Audited for structure, learner journey and maintainability, then rebuilt to WCAG 2.2 and EN 301 549 with formats chosen by the shape of the content. Style guides and templates included so the next revision starts from a standard.

Day rate · £50 to £60 per hour

Catalyst as a service

Send the scheme of work and calibration file. Receive the forged, QA'd document set for SME review, then the Rise 360 build if wanted.

Per module · ~40% SME time saved
1 hour of learner-facing digital content~2 to 3 hrs
AI framework build, per session~3 hrs
5 minute Canva-style video~3 hrs
15 minutes of video editing~2 hrs
1 page supporting material or GIF~1 hr


A short email is enough. Say what the module is, who it is for, and what platform it lands on. No forms, no booking links, no chatbot pretending to be me.

Email me LinkedIn ↗ Remote · Cwmbran, South Wales