Ardmona Primary School’s groodle Rui steals hearts and minds

By Caleb Francis

Aug 30, 2023

Four-legged friend: Prep student David Cox, Rui and Year 1 student Fletcher Gribble. Photo by Megan Fisher

Just three months in and already one of the most popular staff members, Rui the Groodle, has taken Ardmona Primary School by storm.

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Born ‘Ruth’ in NSW, she has been rebranded and is leaving paw prints all over hearts and hallways.

Rui’s story began in Barham, NSW.

Five months old, she bounded into the loving arms of the Ardmona Primary School community in May this year.

As any dog lover would understand, Rui loves chewable playthings.

Principal Jean Varty said the dog was fond of anything she could gnaw — tennis balls included.

She said Rui’s comedic flair came to light when she once turned into a self-appointed office assistant, delivering chewed-up papers from files straight to the school’s secretary’s desk.

High-paw: Education support Nathan Turner high-fiving Rui. Photo by Megan Fisher

Not just a paper shredder, Rui has shown her adventurous spirit as well.

During an after-school sleepover, she staged a mini-escape act with her cavoodle friend, Odie.

Though the freedom was sweet, her smarts kicked in, and she returned upon being called.

Students and staff are often amused by watching Rui collect large sticks and branches and determinedly try to haul them into classrooms.

Standing tall: Ardmona Primary School’s wellbeing dog, Rui. Photo by Megan Fisher

“She certainly keeps us entertained,” Ms Varty said.

However, don’t let the frolics fool you — Rui is no slouch in the brains department.

“She is very, very intelligent,” Ms Varty said.

Already mastering commands from ‘sit’ to ‘high-five,’ she proves her intellect during her regular visits to classrooms.

“She loves to come into the classroom,” Ms Varty said.

Kids’ best friend: Year 1 student Fletcher Gribble with Rui. Photo by Megan Fisher

There, she’s not just a furry distraction but a keen participant in learning activities.

In fact, she’s undergoing special training with Therapy Animals Australia twice a fortnight to refine these amazing skills.

What sets Rui apart isn’t just her intelligence but her emotional wisdom.

She checks in on students daily, as if sensing their needs, and has become an integral part of the school’s emotional support framework.

Ms Varty said parents, staff and students alike reported that her presence had significantly impacted their wellbeing.

Outside school hours, Rui transforms from classroom helper to weekend wanderer, basking in the pleasure of outdoor walks.

“Everything is totally bliss with her,” Ms Varty said.

As Rui continues her training and brightens the school corridors, it’s clear she’s not just a pet but an integral part of the Ardmona Primary School family.