FlyingOfficerKite, read the worlds more carefully
ANO Article 60(2):
A person may act as a pilot of an EASA aircraft without holding an appropriate licence granted, converted or rendered valid under the EASA Aircrew Regulation when undergoing flying training, including solo flying training authorised and supervised by a flight instructor, in accordance with the EASA Aircrew Regulation as amended from time to time.
so if one has a rating, but it is not valid, they may be authorised to fly solo by an instructor.