LOtC Quality Badge

The EPA Code of Practice defines an expedition as:

“Overseas travel that involves a deliberate element of risk, challenge or adventure and requires specialist skills for its safe management”

These can range from a 1-4 weeks in duration and include in their programme: treks in remote regions in challenging terrain, ascents of mountains, journeys by foot, horse, kayak, bike, camel, raft, cultural projects often with remote village communities or other cultural or adventure activities

Most EPA programmes are at the lower challenge end of this range, and only differ from a more traditional school trip in that they specifically include an element of risk such as a project, or an activity provided by a third party provider, such as white water rafting.

Expeditions will have a UK leader who will have overall responsibility for the management of all activities that form part of an expedition programme even if the activity is being delivered by a third party provider

Expedition Leaders are required to have the experience and knowledge to manage all aspects of an expedition programme.

Note: In order to be compliant, all EPA members are externally assessed. EPA does not recognise self-assessement by non-members.

EPA is the awarding body for the LOtC Quality Badge for Overseas Expeditions. For further information regarding the LOtC visit the LOtC Website.

To view the LOtC Quality Badge indicators, please click here.