A nursery worker has pleaded guilty to a string of child sexual abuse offences after police uncovered video evidence that he filmed himself abusing toddlers in his care, in what London’s Metropolitan Police described as one of its most harrowing investigations. The man, identified in court as 45-year-old Vincent Chan of Finchley, admitted 26 offences when he appeared at Wood Green Crown Court on Wednesday.
Prosecutors said the offences included multiple counts of sexual assault against very young children and the creation and possession of indecent images. Some of the abuse was recorded on nursery iPads and other devices seized during the investigation; police recovered dozens of digital devices during the inquiry. Chan worked at the now-closed Bright Horizons nursery in north London and had been employed there for several years.
Concerns about his conduct were first raised by a colleague in 2024, prompting a Metropolitan Police probe that led to his arrest and the forensic examination of seized devices. Authorities say the full extent of the offences is still being assessed. Chan has been remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced in January 2026.
The nursery’s operator and local safeguarding bodies face questions about how the abuse went undetected for so long. Lawyers representing parents have signalled civil action against the employer, and the firm Leigh Day — which is handling claims on behalf of some families — said it was preparing legal steps. Almost 700 families are reported to be receiving notifications from the nursery about the investigation.
Detectives and charities emphasised support for victims and families. The Metropolitan Police and child-protection charities have set up helplines and are urging anyone with concerns to contact police or specialist support services. The NSPCC and similar organisations can provide confidential advice to parents and children affected by abuse.
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