The perfect beginner, apparently (6)

I believe the answer is:

novice

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'the perfect beginner' is the definition.
'novice' can be an answer for 'beginner' (synonyms). I'm unsure of the 'the perfect' bit.

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for novice that I've seen before include "Beginner, tyro" , "New member (of religious order)" , "Acolyte" , "Noob" , "apprentice" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News.

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