What is the Original Polydron Engineer Set?

The Original Polydron Engineer Set (code 10-7050) is a 110-piece engineering construction kit from Polydron for children aged 9 and over. It uses gears, cams, linkages and other engineering components to build working models. A set of work cards guides children through each build.

What can you build with the Polydron Engineer Set?

The 110 pieces include gears with 8, 16 and 24 teeth, plus cams and linkages, shown in a key. Children can build five models, one at a time: a Cable Car, Gear Toy 1, Gear Toy 2, a Chairspinner and a Chairoplane. Turning the gears and watching the parts move shows how simple mechanisms transfer motion. The pieces work with Original Polydron and Polydron Frameworks pieces, so the set can be used alongside existing stock. The boxed set measures 43 x 32 x 7.5 cm and weighs 2.3 kg.

For schools

• Supports design and technology and STEM work on mechanisms at KS2 and KS3.
• Work cards give a clear sequence of five builds for a lesson or club.
• Works alongside Original Polydron and Polydron Frameworks pieces already in school.
• Pupils can work in pairs or small groups to build and test each model.
• Gives SEND provision and intervention groups a hands-on way into engineering ideas.

For parents and home use

• Gives children aged 9 and over a focused engineering project for home learning.
• Step-by-step work cards help children build with growing confidence and independence.
• Fitting gears, cams and linkages gives regular fine motor practice.
• Children can adapt the models or invent their own once the five builds are complete.

Supporting learners with SEND and learning differences

Hands-on construction helps many learners with SEND and learning differences understand ideas that can feel abstract on paper. Turning a real gear and seeing another move makes cause and effect clear and visible. The work cards break each model into clear, visual stages that can be repeated. Fitting the components together also builds fine motor control.

The Original Polydron Engineer Set is available to order from The Dyslexia Shop, a UK specialist in resources for SEND and learning differences, for use in the classroom or at home.