School Census Summer 2026 - SIMS Next Gen (Step 5) Making post-authorisation changes

If uploading onto COLLECT results in validations that require further changes in data, it is possible to make post-authorisation changes to the census return without the need to create copies of the Census return. 

NOTE The content of graphics (dates, names, etc.) are representative only and may not reflect the current return dates.

Making post-authorisation changes

1. Update the relevant data in the MIS.
2. Change the census back to Draft status.
3. Refresh relevant sections and review. 
4. Move through the Ready for review and Authorised stages again. A new version of the census Summary report and XML will be generated with the latest set of changes. 

Tracking status changes

It is possible to track status changes in the census lifecycle. This serves as an audit trail, allowing users to view the status history for the return.

1. From the census overview page, click the Status history [1] button.

1. A side panel opens, showing the status history of the return in a table.
   • Date and time of the changes made.
   • Status changed to. The statuses of "Draft", "Ready for Review" and "Authorised" are identified with coloured pills.
   • The User who made the changes.
   • Files with a link to the files or reports generated for that change.
2. Click Close to close the side panel and return to the census overview page.