Generally, we try to use the cane as soon as is practical after an offence is detected (which is hopefully soon after it was committed) normally within an hour. But occasionally, there can be much longer delays.
We cane boys for skipping detentions. There have been cases where a boy has had a detention immediately before the school holidays and has failed to attend, and has been caned for that when school resumes. If it’s the Christmas holidays, the delay can be up to about seven weeks.