The BT Sport Arms Park region take on the Falcons in their first Anglo-Welsh fixture of the season at Kingston Park.
Mark Hammett’s men go into the match on-the-back of a last-ditch PRO12 defeat to Munster after two European Challenge Cup triumphs.
Dean Richard’s men began their Anglo-Welsh campaign with a 37-23 defeat to Northampton Saints but have already disposed of Newport Gwent Dragons in their European pool.
Jenkins said: “Newcastle had nearly a first-string team last week so we know that they are taking the competition seriously and we will need to be ready.
“We have spoken about not being daunted by it – it’s a chance to impress. Against English teams there is always a bit of extra competition, it’s great to get the chance to play different teams.
“We played Quins in the LV=Cup last year and Leicester in a friendly this year, it’s always great to sample a different environment.”
Garyn Smith, Harry Davies and Jevon Groves will all make their debuts for the Blues in a squad that holds 16 academy products.
Richard Smith is paired alongside Lucas Amorosino in midfield – the Argentine the sole survivor from the side that faced Munster last weekend.
Wales international Scott Andrews packs down with Rhys Williams and Tom Davies up front while lock Loud Reed joins forces with Chris Dicomidis at second row.
Jenkins skippers the side from openside flanker with newcomer Groves and Rory Watts-Jones joining him in the back row.
Wing Davies provides the firepower out wide, with Tom Williams and Dan Fish completing the back three. The half back pairing is Simon Humberstone and Tavis Knoyle.
Jenkins said: ”It’s an opportunity to play at a level that a lot of the boys have been trying to get into and it’s always nice to get the opportunity.
“It gives you the chance to put your hand up for games coming up in the league and in Europe. There’s only so much you can showcase in training, the guys will definitely be trying to impress in a competitive environment.”
