There may be times when a team plans an expedition that is adventurous and challenging but due to its very specific nature it might not be possible to meet one or two of the 20 conditions of the Expedition section.

In this case these expeditions will be assessed by the DofE Head Office to see if adventurous project status can be granted.  These projects will be one-off expeditions in the UK or overseas and can only be used if all of your team are over 16 but they can be used for whichever DofE level you're doing.

Some conditions, such as the need for your team to be unaccompanied or for an appropriate practice journey to be completed are not flexible, but other conditions may have some flexibility.

If you think that your expedition may qualify as an adventurous project you should seek the guidance of your DofE Leader and your Operating Authority DofE Manager at least 6 months before the expedition and before you have committed to spending any money.

Before making a formal application,you must read the relevant advice in the Expedition Guide or on EX². For adventurous project application forms follow this link – variation application form – or contact your DofE Regional or Country Offices.  Use this 'variation application form' and tick the 'adventurous project application' box.  This form must arrive at the DofE Head Office at least 12 weeks prior to the date of departure, but should be sent in at the very earliest opportunity. 

The variation application must be approved by the DofE Head Office and then attached to the appropriate notification from when submitted. An adventurous project reference number will be allocated to each approved expedition and should be entered into your Record Book on successful completion of your expedition.

Note: In giving approval for such expeditions, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award only confirms that the expedition complies with the aim, principles and purpose of the Expedition section.  We do not accept responsibility for health and safety and public liability insurance.  This rests with your DofE centre/group, OA or the activity provider approved by your Operating Authority.

Adventurous projects and ‘Other Adventurous Projects’
The old variation system for Other Adventurous Projects (OAP) has been replaced by the new variations application form and adventurous projects.  If you have already booked an expedition in 2008 for 2009 using the flexibility of the old OAP system then you will still be able to use these flexibilities and apply for an OAP until 31^st March 2009. Applications must be received at least 12 weeks prior to departure and late applications may not approved. You will need to contact the DofE Head Office to ask for an OAP form and say why you can not use the new variations application form. After this date all expeditions must use the new variations application form.