Cheque not cashed by school

[Hullabalooloo]

At the end of the summer term last year, our DC were leaving a state school (as part of normal progression through system). We bought 'usual' gifts for teachers, chocolates/gift set toiletries etc. We were genuinely really happy with the school as the head and class teachers had helped our DC through a tough patch and helped improve academics and attitude to learning enormously. We therefore wanted to give something more abd decided to write a cheque for a not insubstantial amount. We spoke discreetly to the Head in advance to check who to make it out to and handed it over in person during the last week. The school seemed v grateful and we left feeling glad we were able to contribute and support the school in continuing its great work.

Fast forward to Autumn and for various reasons we have decided to send one DC to an independent school. Part of the process required a reference from the previous school. The reference has been provided and all is fine however we have noticed that the cheque has not been cashed.

We were going to get in touch with the school and offer to write out a new cheque if the original has been mislaid or damaged. However now we are thinking whether there is a chance that the cheque could be considered an attempt at a bribe or breaking some kind of ethical rules??

We had vaguely mentioned to the school at the end of the summer term that we were considering a private for one of our DC but for a future transfer in a year or two, not for this September and we didn't envisage at that stage that a full on behaviour/performance reference would be required from the school. In short, it didn't enter our minds that we might be trying to influence the school with regards to any future references. Does anyone have any views on what might have happened?

[AlexanderHamilton]

It depends how efficient the bursar is. I used to hire a primary school to run after school
Activities & they often took ages to cash my cheques.

[PatriciaHolm]

Most likely? It got put in the safe at the end of term, left there over summer, and either temporarily forgotten or no ones had a moment to cash it yet!

[Lanaa]

We received a cheque in similar circumstances at the end of term. Our head wasnt in due to personal reasons and the bursar was away. I know the cheque was still there last week. Don't worry, it will just be due to the fact no one could bank it over the summer.

Also what a lovely generous thing to do!

[Hullabalooloo]

Thanks everyone, that's reassuring to hear!

[NobodyKnowsMeAtAll]

Definitely just a admin type delay. Stuff that happens over the summer tends to be focused on getting ready for the new academic year and stuff that needs to be done whilst the children are away.

Also there are far fewer payments coming in over the holidays (no trips, school lunches etc) so cheques not as numerous/less need to do the banking.

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