Part 2: Madison Jenkins – Art, Advocacy and a TikTok Star
Our second finalist in the Learner of the Year category is Madison Jenkins. Known to over 1.4 million followers on TikTok as @nutty_squirrel, Maddie is not only a talented young artist but a quiet force for good.
Her parents, Scott and Amy Jenkins, reflect on her early passion:
“Maddie has been incredibly passionate about art since she could pick up a pencil. We affectionately called her our little Miss Maker as she experimented with different art forms throughout her childhood. Maddie was always quiet and reserved, often explaining that art was her voice.”
Diagnosed with autism in 2020 and living with scoliosis, Maddie has channelled her creativity into charitable work, raising hundreds of pounds for organisations like Sepsis UK, Noah’s Ark, and the Valindre Cancer Centre:
“One of the most touching moments was when Maddie raised money for the Valindre Cancer Centre after her nan made her recovery, by selling her art.”
Her social media journey began during lockdown, and her gentle, engaging videos now reach millions:
“Some of her videos reached 25 million views! This boosted her confidence, and she remains very modest about her abilities. While not many people know she is the famous @nutty_squirrel, as parents, we love to show off and reveal her secret identity.”
Through her Aced Level 2 Certificate in Art & Design, Maddie explored new styles and tackled personal challenges head-on:
“Although she did not enjoy the self-portrait module at the time, on reflection, it made her appreciate both her inner and outer beauty. The Van Gogh-style portrait is one of our favourites.”
After completing her NCFE course, Maddie progressed directly to a Level 3 programme at college—an incredible achievement:
“Despite not having the minimum 5 GCSE requirements for college, she was allowed to jump from Level 1 to Level 3 qualification, equivalent to 3 A-levels! Her tutor recently told us that she will earn a distinction grade by the end of the term.”
Maddie is living proof that creative expression, when nurtured, can become a powerful voice of change.
