That's not true, Richard.
The relevant text is in
JAR-FCL1, Appendix 1 to section 1.285, which can be found on page 1-G-3, or page 125 of the linked file:
An applicant shall be the holder of a PPL(A) [issued in accordance with ICAO Annex 1].
The important word is "applicant". You do not become an "applicant" until you apply to take the exams. So you can start the course without a PPL, but not do the exams.
FFF
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