Blackboard is Newcastle University's VLE ("Virtual Learning Environment").
Many (but not all) Schools at the University use Blackboard to deliver academic modules and "communities" (i.e. students and staff who participate in the same academic programme).
Login to Blackboard now if you wish, and have a quick look at it: use your normal login name and password.
Some students (but not all) will find that there are already messages and materials waiting for them at the start of term.
If Blackboard "doesn't work" for you at the start of term (i.e. you cannot login to Blackboard, or there are no resources for your modules), do not be too concerned: things may not yet be set up for your course.
If your programme of study uses Blackboard then your lecturers will give you instructions about how they want you to use the system.
If you still have a problem after term starts properly, speak to the relevant lecturer, or email the ISS Helpdesk, who deal with all Blackboard administrative enquiries.