Parents in B.C. schools will soon have the option of introducing their kids to computer programming as early as Kindergarten to grade three.

Premier Christy Clark told a technology conference in Vancouver Monday an introduction to coding option will be available in some schools starting next September. It is expected to be available across the province within three years, and Clark said her goal is to make it mandatory for all students entering school.

Post-secondary technology programs already include co-op job placements for 80 per cent of students, but any new programs will have to be 100 per cent co-op, Clark said.

The province and federal governments also announced new funding to technology employers to help current and future workers upgrade their skills. Grants cover two thirds of training cost  up to $10,000 per employee. More information and applications can be found here.