A Character Values Education Model Based on School Culture

Abstract

This study examines a school-culture-based character education model at Muhammadiyah Leading Primary School in Lemahdadi, Bantul, Yogyakarta. It focuses on how school routines and extracurricular programs are used to support the development of students’ religious commitment, discipline, responsibility, cooperation, leadership, and entrepreneurial awareness. The study employs a qualitative descriptive approach. Primary information was gathered through purposive selection of the school director, two Ismuba teachers, and the head of administration, while observation, interviews, and documentation were used as data collection techniques. Relevant literature served as secondary material. Data validity was considered through source triangulation, and the collected material was analyzed using content analysis. The article identifies five main program areas: strengthening obligatory and sunnah worship, Hizbul Wathan, Tapak Suci, leadership training, and Market Day. These programs provide different but complementary learning contexts. Worship routines support religious habituation; Hizbul Wathan offers opportunities to practise discipline and teamwork; Tapak Suci supports self-control and confidence; leadership training creates opportunities to exercise responsibility; and Market Day introduces creativity and basic entrepreneurial learning. The model illustrates how character education can be embedded in everyday school culture rather than treated only as a classroom topic. Because the study is descriptive and focused on one school, the findings should be understood as a contextual model rather than proof of measurable effects or a universal solution.