For a Lie algebra L over an algebraically closed field F of nonzero characteristic, every finite dimensional L-module can be decomposed into a direct sum of submodules such that all composition factors of a summand have the same character. Using the concept of a character cluster, this result is generalised to fields which are not algebraically closed. Also, it is shown that if the soluble Lie algebra L is in the saturated formation F and if V, W are irreducible L-modules with the same cluster and the p-operation vanishes on the centre of the p-envelope used, then V, W are either both F-central or both F-eccentric. Clusters are used to generalise the construction of induced modules.2010 Mathematics subject classification: primary 17B10.