At fintech company Twenty7tec there's nothing like a bit of healthy competition to create a vibrant business and bring employees together.

The Bournemouth-based company – which develops software to help mortgage, protection and wealth clients serve their customers more efficiently – keeps the energy up through a school-like house system.

With its team of around 80 employees divided up, the race is then on to earn points and badges from challenges and team-building events. At the end of the year, the winning team gets a prize along with the three employees who've amassed the most individual points.

Activities have included a zombie-themed game where teams tracked their steps over two weeks and clocked up more than 2000 miles! And each group is responsible for hosting one social event a year and supporting a charity goal.

As well as good relationships with colleagues, employees are encouraged to have them with their line managers too. At weekly 'check-ins' – assisted by a performance management platform – staff discuss their achievements with their managers, raise any issues and offer feedback. Data is then collated centrally to guide organisational plans and actions.

And employees at Twenty7tec can access a range of benefits, including free healthcare and annual flu jabs. And there's a generous performance-related bonus scheme where they can earn between 10 and 30 per cent of their salary.