This study is based on the main factors that affect academic performance of learners at upper primary level.After carrying out a research with ten primary schools in Gweru district the researcher came up with the following findings.High rate of drop outs is caused by non payment of school fees and levies.Many parents and guardians cannot pay fees for their children in time.Also it shows that there are very few parents who assist their children with school work.Thirdly parents with high values and aspirations have positive influence on their children's academic performance.With enough parental support financially, materially and morally learners can improve academically.Equal treatment of learners by teachers is called for in order to attain high scores in their learning.