A daycare centre in Taiwan's Taichung has come under fire after a nanny was caught on camera abusing an eight-month-old baby on Tuesday (March 13).

In the surveillance footage, the nanny is seen hitting the child on the back of her head and throwing the child on the ground several times.

Her colleague can be seen in the foreground but does not stop the nanny from hitting the toddler.

The incident came to light after the principal of the daycare noticed that the girl suffered bruises on her forehead and decided to check surveillance footage, according to Taiwan media reports.

After discovering that the bruises were inflicted by the nanny, both employees were forced to resign.

The principal, who was identified as Ms Wu, said the nanny was under stress and resorted to her actions as the baby was crying.

According to news site Setn.com, the nanny added that she lost her temper because her leg was in pain and the child was throwing a tantrum.

Reports added that the child is currently hospitalised and that her parents will be taking legal action.

Police investigations are ongoing.