STUDENTS have been learning about a condition that affected some of the world’s most brilliant minds, including Albert Einstein and Bill Gates.

Year 7 and Year 10 groups at The King’s Academy, Coulby Newham, spent the day with Michael Barton, a national champion on autism, a condition that influences how people communicate, relate to others and make sense of the world.

The 22-year-old, from London, also staged sessions with students who live with the condition telling them about the positive aspects and how it need not impact on their prospects in life.

“It is similar to Mr Spock on Star Trek in that he is very logical and shows no emotion,” said the author who has written two books on autism and stages UK speaking tours.

“I tend to be very honest and blunt so people know what I am thinking and that I would not lie to them. I think everyone is a little bit autistic especially if they are passionate about something.”

He said the condition had not prevented him going to the University of Surrey, where he overcame social difficulties, went rock climbing, became president of the judo club and even used his ability to play the spoons.

King’s Academy learning support assistant Basia Zalewska-Wilson said she first heard Michael speak at the Autism Show in Manchester last year.

She said: “We have 13 students on the autism spectrum at The King's Academy and we try to make sure that other students have a good understanding of it."